Understanding the consequences of pollution on the skin

Pollution and premature aging

The fine particles disrupt the proper functioning of cell renewal and the skin's protection mechanism. Pollution accelerates the appearance of signs of skin aging by penetrating the deeper layers of the skin and destroying antioxidants.

 

Pollution leads to the production of free radicals, which are responsible for:

• A slowdown in cellular renewal
• From a peroxidation of lipids
• Damage to thestratum corneum
• A breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers.

But that's not all: by producing oxidative stress, blue light also plays a harmful role on the skin . It can therefore cause fine lines and pigment spots .

Pollution causes a dull complexion

The oxidation of sebum, naturally present on the surface of the skin, gives a grayish appearance to our complexion.

 

In addition, pollution leads to a reduction in oxygenation of the skin, which can lead to a loss of radiance. The complexion is dull , grayish, and the skin appears tired .

Pollution dries out the skin

Pollution can cause areas of severe dryness by inducing a dysfunction of the skin's protective barrier. Indeed, it is the microparticles, sulfur dioxide and ozone present in the air whichweaken the skin barrier.

 

When exposed to pollution, the skin secretes less sebum and dries out.

 

Pollution leads to blemishes and acne

Pollution modifies one of the lipids present in sebum: squalene . The latter peroxidizes and acidifies the surface of the skin. Sebum accumulates on the surface of the epidermis, blocking the pores which dilate. This creates inflammation, and pimples and blackheads appear.

 

In a polluted environment, acne becomes more difficult to treat and can even get worse.

Pollution causes the appearance of pigment spots

Air pollutants, such as black carbon particles, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, are correlated with the formation of lentigos ( pigmented spots) on the face, neckline and back of the hands.

 

These brown hyperpigmentation spots are also aggravated by strong sunlight and exposure to UV rays.

Pollution leads to allergies and skin irritations

When the skin is subjected to pollution, it becomes sensitive, irritated and inflamed. Indeed, pollution attacks the lipids on the surface of the skin, which alters their protective role.

 

Cosmetic ingredients to fight pollution

To fight pollution on your skin, here are some anti-free radical active ingredients to look for in the composition of your cosmetic care products:

• Vitamin C ;
• Ectoin;
• Green tea (camellia sinensis);
• Honey ;
• Calendula macerate;
• Rice bran oil;
• Aloe vera.

What tips to fight against skin pollution?

Consume anti-oxidants

Make sure you consume enough anti-oxidant foods daily. They are found in vegetables such as broccoli, artichokes, cabbage, peppers or spinach, in fish, seafood, shellfish, in fruits, and even green tea.

 

Also make sure to hydrate yourself well, by drinking at least 1.5 L of water per day.

Adapt your beauty routine

The beauty routine plays a crucial role in having smooth and purified skin . If you live in the city, it needs special attention. Opt for cleansing and nourishing facial treatments that combat the effects of pollution by protecting the skin from free radicals .

 

Turn to cosmetics that strengthen your natural protective barrier. The anti-oxidant ingredients are ideal allies here to help you prevent premature skin aging and the development of age spots.

 

 

Step 1: Cleanse and remove makeup

Every day, protect your skin from external aggressions by cleansing and removing make-up correctly.

 

Grangettes purifying gel cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates the skin, for a radiant complexion. It is the ingredients from coconut, such as disodium cocoyl glutamate and disodium cocoamphodiacetate, which act to eliminate impurities and excess sebum , leaving the skin perfectly clean.

 

 

To remove makeup from your skin, Grangettes makeup remover lotion enriched with green tea is a precious ally. It effectively removes makeup and impurities , leaving skin clean and fresh.

 

Step 2: Exfoliate

If you have combination skin and are prone to inflammatory acne, exfoliation is your best ally in chasing away the peroxide squalene that causes blackheads.

 

Exfoliation frees the skin from dead cells , impurities, and all traces of pollution. The skin is smoothed, pores are tightened, and the texture is refined!

Step 3: Moisturize and soothe

The Grangettes Switzerland soothing face cream contains ectoine, an anti-pollution which acts as a protector of the skin barrier .

 

 

It protects the skin against external aggressions, such as pollution, cold and dry air, and exposure to light. To do this, it binds around the water molecules present in the skin, thus maintaining hydration in the epidermis.

 

For mature skin, Grangettes anti-aging face cream contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, which will protect your skin from free radicals. Thanks to hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid , squalane and Allantoin, this cream provides intense and long-lasting hydration to the skin.

 

 

Ready to fight the effects of pollution on your skin?