One may be aware that repeated or long-term exposure to pollutants harms human health, but did you realize that long-term exposure to pollution also damages the skin?

Almost 99% of the world's population lives in locations where air quality exceeds WHO guidelines. So what can one do to help protect their skin while ambient air pollution levels continue to rise?

What Effects Do Air Pollutants Have on Your Skin?

Air pollution has been linked to premature skin aging, acne, and the exacerbation of skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis.

Past research has found that those who live in places with high levels of urban pollution have a lower skin barrier function, significantly lower skin moisture levels, and a different skin microbiota than those who live in less polluted areas.

How to protect the skin from air pollution?

So, what can one do to help protect their skin from pollution's harmful effects? Here are a few pointers to help one create an air pollution-friendly skincare routine:

• Use a mild cleanser to avoid stripping moisture and natural oils from the skin. Harsh cleaners can damage the skin's barrier function, exposing it to external stimuli.
• Use antioxidants to protect the skin from the impacts of pollution and UV radiation (UV). 
• Always use moisturizer! To seal in the moisture and decrease water loss.
• Ceramides are essential lipids in the skin barrier. If the skin barrier is compromised, a ceramide-containing product may help improve its function.
• Wear sunscreen every day to protect yourself from UV rays. UV radiation not only causes skin cancer, but it also contributes significantly to the appearance of skin aging.

How does dermatological treatment help to protect the skin?

Here are some treatments that help to improve the skin:

Chemical peels: This treatment works on the upper layer of the skin, which is more damaged due to air pollution. In this treatment, dermatologists use topical ingredients on the skin that help remove the upper layer of the skin, improve the skin's texture, and remove all the impurities

Laser toning: The outer layers of sun-damaged or aged skin are removed in this procedure by directing a solid wavelength of light. The laser stimulates the underlying skin, promoting collagen and improving visible wrinkles. When the skin heals after laser resurfacing, new, tighter, smoother skin emerges.

Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure. The professional uses a wand to spray or rub tiny crystals onto the skin, gently exfoliating the surface and removing the top layer. The goal is to make the skin look younger. Microdermabrasion can exfoliate the skin, minimize indications of aging, and even out the skin tone. All skin types are safe for the procedure.

To learn more about such dermatological treatments, visit the Soul Derma Clinic and get a consultation with the Best Skin Specialist in Greater Kailash today.