Living in Delhi, India—one of the most notorious cities in the world for air pollution—has made me acutely aware of the importance of a skin-care routine that can withstand the onslaught of environmental aggressors. As I navigate the smog-filled streets, my commitment to maintaining healthy skin has become more than just a beauty ritual; it’s a survival strategy. In 2022, Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) hovered just above 200, putting it squarely in the “poor” air quality category and solidifying its spot as the fifth most polluted city in the world. While pollution levels have improved over the past few years, the polluted air continues to be a major issue for residents. This pollution exposure poses significant health concerns and can have a major impact on the skin. Dermatologist, Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, explains that the particulate matter in the air can cause early wrinkling, aging, pigmentation, dull skin, lack of shine and luster, and hair fall. Additionally, the pollution can lead to skin issues, dry eyes, hyperpigmentation, and dark eye circles.
The impact of the pollution on my skin led me to adopt a holistic approach to skin care. Here are my top tips:
1. Start the day with a skin-protecting drink: A glass of warm water infused with turmeric and ginger. The ancient elixir not only jumpstarts my metabolism, but also offers powerful antioxidant protection from the inside out.
2. Cleanse thoroughly: Wash your face with gentle, non-stripping formulas to ensure a deep clean without compromising the skin barrier.
3. Layer on antioxidants: Incorporate an antioxidant serum, such as Vitamin C, into your routine to combat free radical damage.
4. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid to fortify the skin barrier.
5. Exfoliate regularly: Use chemical exfoliants twice weekly to remove dead skin cells and promote cellular turnover.
6. Use a detoxifying mask: Treat your skin to a detoxifying session using Fuller’s Earth clay once a week to draw out impurities and toxins from the skin.
7. Never leave home without SPF: Wear a zinc-infused sunscreen daily to protect against UV rays and create a physical barrier between your skin and the environment.
By following these steps, I have noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s health and appearance, despite the challenging environmental conditions.
