Is the Summer Smog Affecting Your Skin?
Everyone by now should know that one of the key defences against aging is to wear your broad-spectrum sun protection diligently, every day of the year. Did you know that, whether you see the sun or not, another key factor in aging is pollution? With 54% of the world population living in an urban centre, this is a concern to be addressed. Studies have shown that people who live in the city age 10% faster than those who live in the countryside.
The skin acts as our first line of defence to the many environmental stressors it encounters daily. Along with ultraviolet light and harsh climates, pollution is another one of these stressors. Pollution has been shown to minimize the skin’s natural barrier function, leaving it more susceptible to dehydration, irritation, dull and uneven tone, increased acne and premature aging.
The challenge with pollution is that it can’t always be seen. Pollution particles are so tiny that they can easily penetrate pores causing not only inflammation and dehydration but also a breakdown of collagen in the lipid layer of the skin. This breakdown impairs the skin’s barrier function and reduces firmness and elasticity in the skin. This compromised barrier function can lead to the average person feeling chronically dehydrated, as well.
Summer smog is formed by billions of CO2 emissions and particulate matter. This matter is called PM 2.5, which references its tiny particle size. These particles are suspended in the air, which accumulate to form smog when levels are too elevated. There are now websites and features on local weather alerts dedicated to reporting the current smog levels in your environment.
Do not despair, though. There are actions we can take to minimize harmful effects on our skin.
Firstly, make sure to cleanse your face with the appropriate cleanser both morning and night. Removing dirt, oil and any debris will go a long way in helping. Never go to sleep with your makeup on.
Secondly, there is a solution to help lessen the effects of pollution and help prevent further damage to your skin. AlumierMD’s Alumience A.G.E. serum not only targets the effects of free radicals and glycation but also addresses the harmful effects of pollution with an innovative ingredient that traps a large portion of the particulate matter. This innovation helps by preventing the pollution from harming your skin. It traps pollution in a biomimetic shield, preventing the irritation and thus minimizing the effects of the pollution. When you cleanse your skin at night you remove trapped pollution that has accumulated in the shield.
So, if you are one of the many people that live or work in a major urban centre or have any concerns around skin sensitivity, Alumience A.G.E. may be your new best friend in the summer months when temperatures are elevated and smog increases.
To learn more about the Alumience A.G.E. serum, and the correct home care products for you, get in touch with Dr Rachna Sharma by using the contact form or email [email protected] with SKINCARE as your reference.