How Does Air Pollution Affect Skin? Know Tips To Deal With It

Pollution is linked to oxidative stress and free radicals, antioxidants are powerful tools for combating the negative effects of pollution on the skin.

Skincare tips to deal with pollution

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Air pollution poses numerous challenges for skin health, manifesting as brown spots, dullness, acne, and enlarged pores. Shielding your skin is key. Because pollution is linked to oxidative stress and free radicals, antioxidants are powerful tools for combating the negative effects of pollution on the skin, it is important to employ products rich in antioxidants to establish a robust protective barrier.

Acoording to Hemangi Dhir, who is the Founder & CEO of Botnal, a plant-based, biocompatible and sustainable skincare brand, "They bind to free radicals before they can disrupt skin cell function. Secondly, opt for restoring ingredients such as probiotics, fortifying the skin barrier against pollutants. Embrace natural exfoliants to unclog pores effectively. Additionally, integrate SPF, probiotics, and natural enzymes into your routine. These elements enhance cell turnover, thwart premature aging, and aid in preventing dark spots."

"In addition, make sure you consume enough water to maintain the internal hydration of your skin. Eating meals high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants is equally important because they support good skin. Most importantly, following extended exposure to pollution, make sure you cleanse your face to get rid of any trapped particles and toxins. Applying moisturisers to nourish your skin is also advised because pollution promotes dull, dark skin. And lastly, to avoid having dull skin and bags under your eyes, make sure you get enough sleep each night—roughly 6-7 hours," she added.

Ayurvedic Skincare Tips For Women

Ayurveda is the ideal fusion of science and art for the beauty of nature. It is a way of living that motivates us to take good care of ourselves. There are differences between Ayurvedic skincare and other beauty treatments. According to Ayurveda, having a healthy inner glow will translate into having good skin. Even now, after 5,000 years of use, this medicine continues to be the most effective way to treat the majority of illnesses worldwide.

Dr Annu Prasad, who is an Ayurvedic consultant at Birla Ayurveda, explains that since Ayurveda uses only natural products, primarily sourced from food-grade materials, it sets the benchmark for natural skin care treatments. It is imperative to ensure that the items you purchase for an ayurvedic skin regimen are completely devoid of chemicals, such as parabens and artificial substances.

How Does Dosha Determine Skin Type In Ayurveda?

Skin definitions like oily skin, acne-prone skin, etc. are common in the skincare area, says Dr Annu Prasad. In contrast, Doshas describe Ayurvedic skin care.

Vata Dosha: Skin that is thin, sensitive, and prone to drying out a lot. Fine lines, wrinkles, and pores are all too common.

Pitta Dosha: Generally sensitive skin that breaks out easily. Oily skin, and even rashes, can be caused by Pitta Dosha.

Kapha Dosha: Oily skin with big pores and blackheads. Pimples caused by the Kapha Dosha can also result in skin eczema.

5 Ayurvedic Beauty Tips For Naturally Glowing Healthy Skin:

Here are some tips suggested by Dr Annu Prasad:

• Understanding body type: As previously mentioned, Ayurveda treats each type of skin and human body differently. Using the Doshas previously discussed, determine your body type and practise what suits you most. Determining the source of the issue might assist you in selecting the most appropriate treatment for your skin conditions.
•  Nourish your skin with daily oil massage- Indulge in the benefits of oil massage. Make it a routine to give yourself a gentle massage before taking a shower. An Ayurvedic therapeutic massage called an abhyanga nourishes your skin and increases blood flow throughout your body. If performed properly, this type of Ayurvedic massage has many advantages. Different oils can be used for this kind of massage. Choose the option that most closely matches your interests and needs. You can use a variety of healthy oils for Abhyanga, such as avocado, sesame, coconut, sunflower, and jojoba oils.
• Practice yoga for naturally glowing skin- The two paths to well-being are Yoga and Ayurveda. The two will inevitably interact. When you practise yoga asanayama, your body is detoxified, blood circulation is improved, immunity is strengthened, and many more benefits are achieved. Daily yoga and meditation practice will provide you with a healthy body and mind by assisting you in achieving self-equilibrium.
• Healthy food for healthy skin- Our diet has a big impact on how healthy or unhealthy our skin is. Eating a balanced and mindful diet is essential because food is one of the primary causes of the majority of the Doshas in our bodies. Healthy foods include dairy products, nuts, veggies, whole grains, animal protein, Ghee, coconut oil, and seasonal fruits must all be a part of your diet. However, the ideal diet for radiant skin can only be identified after a careful analysis of each individual's body type and Dosha.
• Revised lifestyle- From an Ayurvedic perspective, your lifestyle plays a significant role in your general health. It's good to have a straightforward daily schedule, drink plenty of water, eat a balanced meal, exercise every day, follow a healthy diet, and get enough sleep. Your body can eliminate pollutants and reveal healthy, radiant skin by detoxifying.

A weekly Pillowcase Ritual For Clear Skin:

In this regard, Dr. Aparna Santhanam who is a skin expert at ITC Dermafique said, "Washing your face with water and facewash, can sometimes not be enough. Additional steps are paramount, for maximum results. I recommend changing the pillowcase weekly to help your skin breathe at night, which is extremely crucial, as most of the repairing happens during that time. This is important to reduce any risks of acne and resting on an oily, bacteria-laden pillowcase leads to damage as we expose the skin to irritants."

"We should remember that while our faces are the carriers of dirt, our hair holds more dirt than any other part of the body, and every night, our hair rubs on the pillowcases leaving behind bacteria, dirt, dead skin cells, oil, sweat and much more. For overall hygiene as well, we should change the pillowcases as a habit," she continued to say.

"This practice should over time become an unconscious habit. The sebum, sweat and oil that encounter the cases and following this practice religiously is only going to help elevate your skincare process. Just like how we change our bedsheets, and clothes and remember to take care of our bodies by bathing daily, we should take care of our external environmental contributors as well. It is suggested that if you deal with serious skin conditions, changing pillowcases every three days can protect your skin. It is a simple task that can yield impressive results from preventing overnight breakouts to bringing balance to your skin by further providing a shield, of sorts," she added.

Dr. Aparna Santhanam concluded by saying, "The fabric of your pillowcase plays a significant role in your skin’s hydration levels. Certain pillowcase materials, like cotton, can absorb moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling dry. As a result, silk or satin pillowcases can help the skin retain more water, reducing the possibility of waking up with dehydrated skin. No matter what material your pillowcase is made from, changing it frequently ensures that it is free of excess oils and sweat, resulting in soft and supple skin as you wake up."