Pollution is one of the most dangerous things for your skin as it ages your skin prematurely. The most dangerous parts of your body which will be affected worst are your face, neck and hands. Your skin will protect itself from pollution but if the pollutants stay

on your skin for a long period it will change your skins structure and could cause serious, damaging problems.

Air pollution seriously affects the way you look and your lungs. When we breathe air it enters your lungs and can cause many serious problems such as asthma and nausea. Air with a lot of pollutants will irritate the lungs, cause nausea, coughing, chest pain, damage blood vessels, and affects the immune system. Not only does air pollution affect the lungs but it will also damage your skin. It will increase the oxidation of sebum, causes pimple formation, rashes, allergies and smoggy air may cause skin dehydration.

Pollution causes premature aging because the air sucks out the oxygen from the skin cells which can make your skin appear dull and saggy. Your complexion will become grayish and rashes may appear. This can also cause skin allergies, diseases, pigmentation, eczema and acne. It will damage your skin due to the increase the free radicals and the effect of UV radiation. It will decrease collagen and elastin production, which will result in rough skin, clogged pores and fine lines.

To take care of your skin and protect your self from pollution you must keep a strict skin care regime. Here are some tips on keeping your skin healthy and good looking.

Cleansing

When cleansing your face avoid washing your face with water from the tap as it contains high levels of chlorine as it will dry out your skin and damage it. Use mineral water to cleanse your face and also exfoliate your face 2 times a week and do a peeling mask for deeper cleansing.

Protection

To help you fight air pollution use a face cream and body lotions containing antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins and hydrants.

Your Healthy Lifestyle

Eating foods high in antioxidant nutrients as this will block free-radical activity in the body

Many skincare products will contain antioxidant ingredients - its really worth trying them.

Always cleanse your skin at night to wash of dirt and grime.

Drink alot of water to keep your skin hydrated.

Green tea contains powerful antioxidants that will destroy the free radicals.

Always wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and i mean everyday!

Always use a moisturizer as this acts as a barrier cream which will block environmental pollutants.

Steam your face once a week to cleanse the face and open the pores.

Avoid eating fatty or spicy foods.