How to Help Skin if You Live in a Polluted Area

If you live in a polluted area then looking after your skin properly is a must to help reduce congestion and inflammation. At Nakin we can help with our excellent range of natural cleansers and protecting moisturisers. Find out all you need to know about combatting pollution with skincare in our guide to helping your skin in polluted areas below.

Living in a polluted area can have various negative effects on your skin. Air pollution can damage the skin barrier and lead to premature ageing, dark spots, and dullness. But, with the right knowledge and skincare regimen, you can help your skin remain healthy and radiant, even in a polluted environment. Let's dive into some tips and tricks to help combat pollution's damaging effects and to keep your skin looking fabulous.

1. Double cleanse your skin: Double cleansing is a skincare technique that involves using two different cleansers, one oil or foam based, and the other water-based, to thoroughly cleanse the skin. The oil or foam based cleanser helps to remove oil-based impurities, such as makeup and SPF, and the water-based one helps eliminate dirt and sweat from the skin. This is especially essential if you live in polluted areas as it not only keeps your skin clean but also helps eliminate pollutants that may have settled on your skin.
2. Use antioxidants: Antioxidants rich skincare like ours will help neutralise free radicals caused by pollutants. Ingredients like vitamins and green tea extract are excellent antioxidant options that help protect your skin from the harmful effects of pollution. Antioxidants also help with reducing inflammation, leaving your skin feeling healthy and youthful.
3. Keep your skin hydrated: Pollution can strip your skin of its natural oils, making it look dry and dull. Dehydrated skin is more likely to experience irritation, itchiness, and other skin problems. To avoid this, you should ensure to keep your skin hydrated by using a hydrating moisturiser like ours. It’s best to opt for lightweight moisturisers and serum formulas with hydration power, such as hyaluronic acid, that will penetrate deep into the skin leaving it feeling more moisturised.
4. Wear SPF: Even if it’s cloudy or rainy, it’s essential to apply SPF. Harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun can penetrate the skin and cause more damage in a polluted environment, leading to hyperpigmentation and premature skin ageing. Choosing a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
5. Keep a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to helping your skin withstand pollution. This includes drinking plenty of water, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep and exercise. These healthy practices can help fight against skin inflammation, which can enhance your skin's defense against pollution.

It's true that living in a polluted environment can wreak havoc on your skin, but with the tips outlined in this post, you can indeed combat the effects of pollution on your skin. Be sure to double cleanse, use antioxidants, keep your skin hydrated, wear SPF, and maintain a healthy lifestyle routine. With these best practices, you can help your skin remain radiant and healthy, making you feel confident and gorgeous. Give your skin the care and protection it deserves, even in a polluted environment.