Your typical skincare routine may seem to address every skin concern possible, but even the strictest of us fail to address the biggest irritant we face daily: pollution.
Not only does hopping on your commute taint your complexion faster than you cleanse it, pollution particles can also speed up the ageing process of your skin by penetrating to the epidermis and accelerating cellular deterioration and cause hyperpigmentation.
In fact, according to dermatology studies published over the past few years, a combination of UV rays, particulate matter, grime, and smog are responsible for 80 per cent of visible facial ageing signs, including wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and loss of skin elasticity.
Here are the best anti-pollution products (out of the hundreds of products) we tried out for the Her World Beauty Awards 2019 that will start building your skin barrier against pollution.
For more on Her World Beauty Awards, click here.
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This works up a rich, dense foam that feels wonderful on the skin but is easy to rinse off.
Delivers a thorough cleanse without stripping away moisture so skin remains soft and supple.
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Each pump evenly delivers a cool, refreshing mist that provides skin with a major moisture surge.
It reduces feelings of tightness, soothes sensitive skin and can also be used to set makeup.
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A godsend for thirsty and stressed skin, this helps calm irritation and maintain hydration. But if you have open wounds caused by skin conditions like eczema, steer clear, because it may sting.
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This lightweight gel-cream not only moisturises and brightens dull skin, it also reduces redness and the look of age spots.
It has a gentle mattifying effect and minimises blackhead by preventing impurities from clogging pores.
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The creamy texture and cooling sensation instantly comfort skin so it feels coddled and soft.
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Ultra-light, ultra-airy, refreshing and with a non-greasy texture, this lends skin a beautiful sheen that almost looks like you’ve applied a subtle cream highlighter.
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Has a balanced texture that’s neither too watery nor creamy.
Skin looks brighter with a healthy glow, not a strange white cast. Works well as a makeup primer too.
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It removes tough makeup easily, but you still need to use a facial wash after. The silicone mitten it comes with helps to better remove dirt, traces of makeup and impurities.
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A good daily-use oil cleanser that removes regular makeup well. Skin feels fresh after cleansing but not overly taut. The pleasant scent is a plus and has a mood-lifting effect.
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This creates a thin, lightweight film that helps shield skin from pollutants in the air, so the complexion looks brighter, more energised and well-rested.
It can be used on sensitive skin and skin with acne too, as it won’t clog pores or cause irritation.
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