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While air and water pollution are part of modern life, you don’t have to let them harm your skin. Hemera/ThinkstockOur skin is more than just a protective covering; it's a sophisticated organ designed to shield us from external factors. Though pollution in the air and water can affect both the look and function of our skin, there are measures we can take to reduce its impact.
Watch out for air pollution: Airborne toxins can cause premature aging, especially on the face, neck, and hands [source: WebMD]. Smog, dust, and dirt can combine with the sun’s ultraviolet rays to form free radicals that drain oxygen from skin cells and disrupt collagen production. These reactive oxygen molecules are harmful, attacking cells and damaging DNA, leading to wrinkles, rough skin, acne, and a dull, gray complexion. Prolonged exposure may also trigger skin allergies, eczema, and damage to blood vessels.
Keep your skin protected by cleansing your face every day, exfoliating twice a week, and applying moisturizer daily. Research suggests that antioxidant-rich products — like green tea — can help fight pollutants on the skin [source: Orlow].
Limit chlorine exposure: While chlorine is used to purify drinking water, it's also a harmful chemical that, in excessive amounts, can severely irritate both your skin and lungs [source: New York Department of Health]. Even in small quantities, the cumulative effects can be damaging. When you shower, the heat opens your pores, allowing chlorine to penetrate your skin, stripping it of natural oils and leading to dryness, which can result in wrinkles [source: New York Department of Health]. Minimize your time in pools and other heavily chlorinated water.
Don't do it to yourself: Smoking is just another form of air pollution, whether it's firsthand or secondhand smoke. It contributes to wrinkles by constricting blood vessels in your skin, limiting blood flow and depleting oxygen and nutrients. Smoking also weakens elastin and collagen — fibers essential for maintaining skin's elasticity, causing premature wrinkles. Furthermore, cigarette and cigar smoke are significant sources of free radicals that can damage and wrinkle the skin.
Block the pollution: While you can't fully avoid pollution if you live in a developed country, there are steps to reduce its effects. Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to wrinkles and even skin cancer [source: American Melanoma Foundation]. A quality moisturizer hydrates your skin while acting as a barrier against free radicals and pollutants. For added protection, apply sunscreen to your face and neck, and take a daily vitamin C supplement [source: WebMD].
Stay hydrated: One of the most effective defenses for maintaining healthy skin is also one of the Earth’s most abundant resources. Water keeps your skin hydrated, promotes cell regeneration, improves circulation, reduces dark circles under the eyes, and boosts skin's elasticity. To safeguard your skin from the harmful effects of water pollution, consider filtering your drinking water to eliminate chlorine and other toxins. Regularly wash your face and exfoliate twice a week to remove airborne pollutants. Using mineral water may also help you avoid the potential damage caused by chlorine in tap water [source: Leffell].
As we age, skin naturally loses moisture and elasticity, but by implementing these methods, we can slow the effects of pollution on this process. For more tips on how to protect your skin from environmental damage, explore the links and resources on the next page.
