Air pollution is now one of the leading causes of adult acne, surpassing the impact of hormones, genetics, diet, and stress. Understanding the effects of external factors on our skin and how to protect it from damage is essential.
We already know that maintaining a proper skincare routine of cleansing and moisturizing is crucial for a clear complexion. However, weather and air pollution can also take a toll on our skin, causing acne and other skin issues.
While harsh winter weather can lead to red and irritated skin, exposure to UV rays from the sun can cause skin aging and increase oiliness during summer. Now, we must add air pollution to the environmental factors that can harm our skin. Here, we will delve into the relationship between air pollution and acne and what steps we can take to protect our skin.
The Impact of Air Pollution on Acne
Air pollution, a common issue in many cities and towns, contributes to adult acne. It releases harmful gases, including carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen, into the air that harm our health when inhaled and cause skin problems when they land on our faces.
When pollution particles such as debris and dust land on the skin, they can clog pores and lead to acne. Additionally, air pollution also causes free radical damage, which speeds up the skin aging process.
Defending Against Pollution-Caused Acne
While air pollution is a more significant issue in urban areas due to increased traffic congestion, there are steps you can take to protect your skin from its harmful effects. You don’t have to move to the countryside to achieve clear, youthful skin.
Protect Your Skin Barrier
When dealing with acne, it’s common to adopt an aggressive approach with harsh ingredients. While using well-established acne fighters such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can effectively treat and prevent acne, excessive use can harm your skin.
Your skin barrier is your first line of defense, and keeping it in good condition ensures your skin remains clear, soft, and smooth. However, pollution also affects your skin barrier, so it’s important not to weaken it further.
Incorporating ingredients that make up your skin barrier is a reliable way to keep it healthy. Ceramides and lipids are the main components of the skin barrier, so look for skincare products containing these ingredients to help build it up.
Niacinamide can help soothe the skin barrier while making pores appear smaller, while antioxidants can fight free radical damage. Taking care of your skin barrier is crucial for achieving a clear and radiant complexion.
Proper Cleansing is a Must
Living, studying, or working in a city means exposure to pollution. To keep your skin clear, cleansing is crucial. But don’t stop at one cleanse. Double cleansing is a popular and effective method to remove all traces of makeup and grime.
Begin with a cleansing oil, balm, or micellar water if you currently use makeup wipes. This step will remove most makeup and surface dirt. Then, follow with a regular water-based cleanser. This will cleanse any remaining residue and clean out any impurities that have found their way into your pores. Neglecting proper cleansing can lead to dirt and makeup buildup, leading to acne.
Avoid Pore-Clogging Ingredients
Pollution particles can find their way into your pores, so it’s important to avoid adding to the problem with pore-clogging ingredients. While double cleansing can help remove impurities, it may not fully clear your pores if you are using comedogenic products. Even if you double cleanse, using products high in comedogenic ingredients can make it difficult to fully remove dirt and debris from your pores.
These ingredients can be found in many beauty products, such as makeup, self-tanner, and skincare. But making smart choices can help keep your skin clear, making it easier to fight pollution-caused acne.
In skincare, steer clear of ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and cetyl alcohol. Opt instead for lighter hydration options, such as hyaluronic acid.
Many makeup products, like primers and foundations, now include skin-friendly ingredients, offering both cosmetic and skincare benefits. You can protect your skin from pollution and keep your pores clear by using a non-comedogenic primer. If you want a sun-kissed glow, switch from traditional self-tanners with pigment to clear tanning drops, as the pigment in regular self-tanners can block pores and lead to acne.
Preventing acne can be a challenge, especially when it comes to understanding the impact of pollution. By avoiding pore-clogging ingredients, you can take steps to help maintain clear, healthy skin.
References:
- Schikowski, T., & Hüls, A. (2020). Air pollution and skin aging. Current environmental health reports, 7, 58-64.
- Puri, P., Nandar, S. K., Kathuria, S., & Ramesh, V. (2017). Effects of air pollution on the skin: A review. Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology, 83, 415.
- Roberts, W. (2021). Air pollution and skin disorders. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, 7(1), 91-97.
- Mistry, N. (2017). Guidelines for formulating anti-pollution products. Cosmetics, 4(4), 57.
- 7. Evans M. Top 18 Best Non-Comedogenic Primers for Acne-Prone Skin [Internet]. Healthy Beautiful. [cited 2023 Feb 6]. Available from: https://healthybeautiful.com/review/best-non-comedogenic-primers-for-acne-prone-skin/
