While we all know about the importance of protecting our skin against UV rays, there’s a growing body of research that recommends shielding the complexion from pollution.
Why? Because pollution fumes and particulate matter are full of free radicals, harmful atoms that are detrimental to skin health and one of the major players in the extrinsic ageing process. Put simply, free radicals are unstable atoms lacking an electron, which makes them extremely unstable and reactive and once they come into contact with the skin, they deprive it of the oxygen it needs to function properly through healthy cell regeneration.
With pollution levels at alarming all time highs, we regularly recommend anti-pollution solutions to our clients. But which ones? Take a look at the Lion/ne approved edit of pollution-shielding formulas and then book in for a Holistic Skin Session to find out which one is best for you.
Ksenia loves...
For me, nothing beats a very good antioxidant serum to protect the skin against pollution. This is one of my favourites as it contains a good percentage of vitamin C which also makes sure that my skin is fully protected from the sun (FYI I was already using a 15% before – this is super important to mention as you need to get your skin "acclimated" to vitamin C before using a high percentage like this).
Not only does this mist boost the enzymatic function of the skin with the Tri-Hyaluronan Complex present in the formulation, but it also has an anti-pollution complex that helps to protect the skin against pollution. This is my favourite top-up product to have, especially in summer as it also gives a little cooling effect.
Nothing new here, as this is a staple product especially in French bathrooms but I love using a mud mask after a long day outside in the city as it gives me the feeling that I'm helping my skin a little bit more by really cleansing it inside out. HOWEVER, and this is super important, it doesn't mean you have to leave the mask on for 40 minutes while binging on your favorite Netflix show. To ensure that you use this product to its optimal level make sure to respect the time advised on the product. The key rule? Don't let it dry on your skin, I mix it with manuka honey to avoid the "pulling" effect from the skin.
Megan loves...
I have been using this since they launched this product years ago as a makeup primer and I really like it because it’s full of antioxidants and is perfect for makeup prep or a no makeup look. It just smooths things out and gives a kind of blurred effect. I will sometimes mix in a pump of the Glossier Future Dew for more of a glow!
This is one that I have been trialling for a few weeks now and is a fave of another one of our Skin Mentors, Sophie. It is full of pollution/free radical fighting antioxidants like vitamin C esters, vitamin E, coffee seed extract and loads of others. In addition, this has PHAs!
I thought that I had a favourite SPF, but then I was sent this by La Roche-Posay and it is now my number one. I actually enjoy putting this SPF on; it DOES NOT SMELL like SPF, which for me is critical — I don't like the sticky feeling of SPF or the smell. It contains hyaluronic acid, LHA, and niacinamide, not to mention it protects the skin from its number one enemy – UVA/UVB rays!
Want to know what is the right anti-pollution product for your skin?
