We know the harmful effects of pollution on our health and body, but do you it is also responsible for most of your skin problems? Pollution also affects each skin type differently and therefore different approaches needs to be taken in order to guard our skin against pollution.

We spoke to skin expert and Consultant Dermatologist Dr Mrunal Shah Modi. She gave us insights on the impacts pollution and how to guard our skin from it. Here’s what she said...

 

How does pollution impact our skin?

How does pollution impact our skin?

Pollution affects our skin in a very bad way. Even after following a healthy diet, exercising regularly and jogging if you notice fine lines, wrinkles and patchy skin it is because of pollution. Pollution also affects each skin type differently.

If you have oily skin you will notice blackheads, pimples, acne and can also block your pores.

If you have dry skin pollution can cause premature aging, crow’s feet, fine lines and wrinkles on your skin.

If you have sensitive skin pollution can lead to red skin, irritation, erythema and itchiness.

 

How to protect skin from the harmful effects of pollution?

How to protect skin from the harmful effects of pollution?

Before stepping out in the sun or a polluted area ensure that you put on sunscreen 30 minutes before leaving the house especially between 12 pm to 4 pm. If you have extremely sensitive skin you need to take extra precautions by covering your skin with a dupatta, scarf, full sleeves and jacket. Also, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water after your skin is exposed to a polluted area. Make it a habit to exfoliate your skin with a gentle scrub once a week and hydrate your skin at night with a nourishing cream infused with vitamin C, vitamin E or retinol.

 

How to adjust your skincare routine to deal with pollution?

How to adjust your skincare routine to deal with pollution?

In the morning when you get up, exercise is a must. I do it every morning an advice everyone to follow an exercise routine. After the exercise session take a bath with a gentle cleanser and warm water, then hydrate your skin with a good moisturiser and wear sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun. You can wear your makeup on top on the sunscreen.

At night start by cleansing your skin, then apply a good moisturiser and follow it up with a night cream that contains vitamin C, vitamin E, retinol or hyaluronic acid. Other than this a healthy and balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and consuming lots of water will guard and repair your skin.