Air pollutants rob skin cells of oxygen and cause free radical production; UV radiation makes things worse, writes Dr Karuna Malhotra
The injurious effects of air pollution are widespread. Every day commuting to work or travelling around the city, we’re being exposed to high levels of toxins. Air pollutants rob skin cells of oxygen and cause free radical production in the skin. This, in combination with UV radiation, decreases the production of collagen and elastin, causing skin thinning and loss of elasticity, leading to sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Following are a few measures to protect your skin and hair from air pollution:
STOCK UP ON VITAMIN C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help us fight the devastating effects of pollution. It can rid our bodies of free radicals that cause our cells to age more rapidly. It can also help us breathe easier. When 200 patients between the ages of 54-74, many of whom were asthmatic or had COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), were surveyed at The Imperial College in london, researchers found that those with lower levels of Vitamin C were more vulnerable to breathing difficulties and hospital admission, especially on days when air pollution levels outside increased.
Natural sources for Vitamin C are available in plenty, especially in a diet full of fresh foods and nutrient rich fruits and vegetables. If you’re looking for the best sources of Vitamin C, oranges, pineapples, guavas, papayas, strawberries, amla (gooseberry) are all ideal choices. I highly recommend that you make a paste of amla and add it to a litre of drinking water. Sip on this throughout the day.
Vitamin C is also found in vegetables; stock up on capsicum, kale (a kind of spinach), broccoli, chili peppers, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. For a steadier, more measured dose, chewable tablets of 1,000 mg Vitamin C are also an option.
For more protection inside and out, try a Vitamin C serum (a lotion with at least 15-20 per cent Vitamin C); apply it on your face before going to bed at night.
ADD MORE lAYERS TO SKIN
Many of us don’t bother with make-up, especially during the hot summer months, but contrary to expectations, a freshly scrubbed face is often more vulnerable to the damaging effects of air pollution. With no barrier between your skin and the air, toxins and UV radiation can sink directly into your skin.
To prevent this, add more layers to protect your skin. Never step out with a raw face. Choose a light moisturiser, follow this up with a sunscreen, and dust on a loose powder before you leave your home.
SPRITZ ON SUlPHUR SPRINGS
Not only is an unprotected face more likely to be damaged by air pollution, but a frequently washed face can also harm your skin. It’s tempting to wash your face often, especially after battling the grime of Indian roads. But frequent washing strips your skin of essential oils, making it more prone to acne and other skin problems. Avoid washing your face more than three times a day. If you need refreshment between washes, try a vaporising spray equipped with sulphur springs or sulphur water to keep you well moisturised.
GET REGUlAR MASSAGES
Sweat, dust, and grime can settle in the roots of your hair, causing excessive hair loss. Washing your hair every day with a gentle shampoo will help. A head massage once every two weeks can also help stimulate blood circulation, improve the health of the scalp, and refresh you after a long day in the polluted air. Use coconut oil or mustard oil in the summers, and almond or olive oil during winters.
The writer is a Cosmetologist and Homeopath Physician from Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic