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.
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