Pollution: Skin care tips to combat the toxins in the air

Environmental pollution not only causes cough, throat ache or irritation in the eyes, it also causes long-term damage to the skin. Pollutants sink deep into the skin and can cause acne, dark spots, damage, dullness and premature aging. Pollution contains free radicals and other aggressors that can penetrate deep into the skin's layers, and cause long-term damage and the darkening of skin cells from within. One should try her/his best to shield the skin from the adverse effects of pollution.

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Maintaining a balanced lifestyle and following a good skincare regime are the key to combat pollution. Cleanse your skin daily in the morning and evening to remove any build-up of pollutants. Double cleanse and exfoliate to remove the accumulation of pollutants. Add a moisturiser to your regime and top it off with an SPF for full protection.

Here are some skincare tips customised for the various skin types:

Oily skin

People with oily skin need to a face wash that goes deep into the skin and cleans the pores. This should be followed by an alcohol-free toner on the face and neck. A matte moisturiser to prevent the glands from producing excess oil should also be added to the care regime. A salicylic-glycolic cream at night is perfect for reducing daytime oiliness. Use a small-granule scrub at least twice-thrice a week to reduce skin build-up. Those with an acne-prone skin type can add an anti-acne cream to help reduce breakouts.

Dry skin

Use a gentle moisturising face wash to cleanse the skin. Apply a daily serum and a cream-based, antioxidant-rich sunscreen during the day, and a rich cream to nourish your skin at night. A multi-vitamin mask twice a week to keep the skin hydrated is recommended.

Normal to combination skin

Use a gentle face wash to cleanse the skin and apply sunscreen in the mornings. At night, apply an oil-free lotion to moisturise the skin. Use a moisturising cream only on the dry areas during daytime. Use a charcoal-based mask to detox the skin once a week.

Ageing skin

Use a hydrating face-wash. Follow it up with a serum that should be used twice daily to protect and prevent the skin from ageing. Using an anti-ageing cream and an under-eye cream at night is also recommended.

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Here are some tips for a healthy skin:

1. Cleanse, tone and moisturise
2. Double cleanse, if required
3. drink plenty of water and other liquids
4. Always wear sunscreen
5. Get a good night’s sleep