Pollution is not only threatening the planet, it’s ageing our skin too. In fact, the World Health Organisation has described air pollution as “one of the most pernicious threats to global public health”. These pollutants, such as exhaust fumes and heavy metals, all degrade our skin’s natural defences with some particles getting lodged in our pores.
From anti-pollution creams to pollution-clearing masks, the beauty industry is brimming with products especially formulated for city living. These products contain an enhancing cocktail of antioxidants which help neutralise free radicals, powerful ingredients which help remove toxins, or formulas that essentially create a barrier of protection. Here are the best pollution busters to get you started. Before you know it, you’ll have balanced skin that’s ready to
face the smoggiest of cities.
1. REN Clean Skincare Flash Defence Anti Pollution Mist, 60ml, £24:
Spray this refreshing mist on your face to provide instant relief from pollutants, such as exhaust fumes. It’s specifically designed to combat the stress of urban living too, so spritz away whenever your skin desires a top up
• www.LookFantastic.com
2. Chantecaille Anti-Pollution Mattifying Cream, 40ml, £88:
Containing extracts of desert cactus yeast, and white tea, the ingredients protect the skin against any external aggressors. The cream is also light-weight, so the whipped texture feels good on the skin, and helps minimize any visible pores
• www.LookFantastic.com
3. bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Defense, 50ml, £35:
This moisturiser is formulated with sugar molecules to help block pollution particles and stresses of blue light from screens. The mineral SPF helps prevent skin damage too, so the formula is excellent for both indoor and outdoor protection
• www.BareMinerals.co.uk
4. Sanctuary Spa Vitamin C Wet Skin Gel Moisturiser, 75ml, £14.50:
Using vitamin C super-fruits, this gives skin an instant luminosity, for a brighter, more radiant complexion. The jelly has a unique way of locking in moisture on your skin’s peak hydration moment when it’s wet
• www.Boots.com
5. The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF50+, 60ml, £22:
With a notably high SPF, this non-greasy lotion will protect your skin against UVA/UVB rays. It also contains a red algae extract and vitamin C to help your skin look brighter and healthier
• www.TheBodyShop.com
6. Urban Decay All Nighter Pollution Protection Makeup Setting Spray, £26:
Containing a blend of minerals such as zinc, magnesium and copper, the formula protects your skin against any environmental damage. Gently mist to keep your makeup looking fresh and breathable and most importantly, non-sticky
• www.UrbanDecay.co.uk
7. Dr Barbara Sturm Anti Pollution Drops, 30ml, £110:
These drops contain a clever, active ingredient obtained from cocoa seeds to protect the skin from signs of ‘digital ageing’. It also supplies the skin with much-needed moisture and stars innovative antioxidants to aid your healthy glow
• www.CultBeauty.co.uk
8. Estee Lauder Multi-Defense UV Fluid SPF45 with 8 Anti-Oxidants, 30ml, £36:
A strong combination of UVA/UVB, pollution, and dehydration defence, blend the fluid smoothly into the skin in the morning, as a last step in your skincare regimen
• www.EsteeLauder.co.uk
9. Bobbi Brown Remedies Skin Reviver No91 Power Greens Ferment, 14ml, £35:
For a plumper, more refreshed complexion, this remedy works to energise and replenish vital nutrients in the skin, and protect it from any environmental aggressors
• www.BobbiBrown.co.uk
10. Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Antipollution Sunshine Drops, 30ml, £30:
The rich combination of vitamins and antioxidants helps boost the skin’s defences against outside stressors. Use a few drops as a mixer to a good moisturiser or serum, for a sun-kissed glow on the face or body
• www.SpaceNK.com
As seen in Khush Wedding 25. Buy this issue here