It’s About Time You Started Pollution-Proofing Your Skin

If climate change hasn’t already convinced you to reduce your carbon footprint, consider this an appeal to your vanity: air pollution can make you look older. Pollutants from exhaust and industrial processes cause oxidative stress on skin, leading to the formation of “free radicals” (just know: they’re bad) that cause things like inflammation, fine lines, and dark spots. Here are five ways to minimize the damage.

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1. Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly 

This lightweight facial moisturizer boasts Clean Shield Technology, which protects skin from pollution while keeping it hydrated with a blend of sunflower seed cake, barley extract, and cucumber fruit extract that reinforces your moisture barrier.

$35, CLINIQUE.CA

2. Chanel L’Huile Antipollution Cleansing Oil

Apply this cleanser in a circular motion with your fingers to wash away pollution particles before bed.

$53, chanel.com

3. Schaf Restoration Mask

Loaded with antioxidants that detoxify and cleanse, this easy-to-apply mask will give your skin a clean slate.

$40, schaf.ca

4. Royal Fern Phytoactive Anti-Oxidative and Illuminating Ampoules 

Each capsule’s high content of antioxidants helps reverse the pollution-induced stress that leads to inflammation. Crack one open at the end of a day spent running around town.

$268, royalfern.com

5. Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free UV Protector SPF 42 For Face

This sunscreen doesn’t just block UV rays; it has rose apple-leaf extract and thiotaurine to fight oxidation and can be worn daily without any sticky residue.

$40, shiseido.com
Photo: Joseph Saraceno
Styling: Rodney Smith/Plutino Group