Air pollution can take a serious toll on your skin. This is particularly true if you live in an urban area. Not only can it lead to premature aging, air pollution may leave your skin blotchy, dehydrated, and inflamed. So what are the major types of pollution that you should be mindful of if you’d like to protect your skin? Keep reading to find out.
1. Smog
The yellow brown haze you see in big cities like New York is known as smog. It’s comprised of numerous gaseous chemicals and toxic particles like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide. While smog arises naturally, the majority of it stems from fossil fuel burns.
2. Cigarette Smoke
Research shows that cigarette smoke can reduce blood flow to the skin and damage the skin cells that create collagen and elastin, the two proteins that keep your skin looking youthful and beautiful. Believe it or not, smokers are more than five times more likely to develop fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin than those who do not smoke.
3. Blue Light
Blue light comes from a variety of electronic devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones. There are some studies that prove the continued use of these devices may lead to free radicals and stop the production of collagen. This exposure may expedite the natural process of aging and cause wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and other common skin concerns.
4. Car and Truck Exhaust
Car and truck exhaust releases a variety of gasses and chemicals that can wreak havoc on your skin. It’s not uncommon for it to prompt skin irritations like wrinkles, broken capillaries, redness, rashes, and allergic reactions. Vehicle exhaust may also decrease elasticity and accelerate the natural process of aging.
5. Dust
Dust particles that come in contact with your skin are likely to overproduce free radicals, which can damage the skin and cause breakouts. Exposure to dust may also result in skin irritation, hyperpigmentation, and skin roughness.
Ways to Protect Your Skin From Pollution
While it’s unrealistic for you to avoid air pollution at all costs, there are ways you can protect your skin from its damaging effects. Be sure to thoroughly clean your skin with a gentle cleanser containing antioxidants every morning and evening to remove any particles and skin stressors.
Also, use quality products like the Miracular Skin Essence, which increases hydration, repairs your skin barrier, and prevents free radical damage from within to visibly reduce the signs of inflamed and aging skin. With regular use, the right products can help keep your skin looking young and healthy, despite the environmental hazards it may face.
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