Although pollution is something we have learnt to live with, it doesn't mean that we shouldn't be fighting it. Because of the microscopic size of its particles, it can infiltrate the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in inflammation, dehydration, uneven skin tone, premature ageing [1], and potentially skin cancer.
According to Dr. Isabel Sharkar [2], the best way to fight pollution would be to add antioxidants to our beauty arsenals, so I did my research and tried a few products that claimed they would help me combat these free radicals. Read on to discover the ones that made the cut.
Katherine Daniels Urban Shield Concentrate
The Katherine Daniels Urban Shield Concentrate [3] (£38) is a concentrate of hydration that will boost your skin's normal moisture levels. Its creamy texture sinks in quickly and isn't sticky, and it smells so good that I wish it existed in perfume form. It's a great treatment if you suffer from redness, and it will protect your sensitive skin from UV radiation.
Dr. Levy 3 Deep Cell Renewal Micro-Resurfacing Cleanser
I very rarely fall head over heels in love with skincare products, but the Dr. Levy 3 Deep Cell Renewal Micro-Resurfacing Cleanser [4] (£39) is one of those gems that I simply could not live without. It contains glycolic and lactic acids (which dissolve the glue that sticks dead cells, grime, pollutants, and bacteria together) and organic rice extracts (which physically polish, refine, and brighten the skin), as well as sodium PCA and lactic acid ester (which promote plumpness and enhancing moisture levels). It can also be used as a mask, which is a bonus!
REN Flash Defence Anti Pollution Mist
If you like very fine mists, then the REN Flash Defence Anti Pollution Mist [5] (£24) was made for you. This lovely product — which I like to use at the end of my morning skincare routine — instantly shields and protect the skin from the effects of environmental pollution, and it helps to strengthen the skin’s natural defences.
Antipodes Certified Organic Hosanna Intensive Hydrating Serum
The Antipodes Certified Organic Hosanna Intensive Hydrating Serum [6] (£30) is a water-charged and oil-free product that immediately quenches thirsty skin and helps improve its appearance over time. Vinanza Grape antioxidant keeps the skin superhydrated and protected from the damage caused by environmental aggressors and pollutants, while Mamaku black fern helps foster healthy cell renewal.
Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream
The Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream [7] (£25) was especially formulated for skin that is challenged by polluted, urban environments. Enriched with detoxifying Moringa Seed Extract, it cleanses the skin without leaving it feel dry, and it smells so good that it has turned my evening skincare routine into my favourite part of the day.
Sukin Oil Balancing Plus Charcoal Anti-Pollution Facial Masque
There's nothing quite like a good mask to fight against the effects of pollution. The Sukin Oil Balancing Plus Charcoal Anti-Pollution Facial Masque [8] (£12) contains bamboo charcoal, rooibos tea, and willowherb to target impurities and keep pores clear, while white bilberry, white tea, and pomegranate are there to give the skin a healthy glow.
Elemental Herbology Cell Nourish Radiance and Vitality Facial Serum
Infused with a host of vitamins, antioxidants, and proteins, the Elemental Herbology Cell Nourish Radiance and Vitality Facial Serum [9] (£46) will soothe and calm your skin whilst improving its vitality, brightness, and radiance.
Institut Esthedem City Protect Spray
The Institut Esthedem City Protect Spray [10] (£35) is a very fine mist that will provide your skin with daily protection against damaging environmental and urban factors such as the sun, pollution, and free radicals. It can be used on the face, body, and hair, and can be reapplied throughout the day.
Medik8 Firewall Serum
The paraben and fragrance-free Medik8 Firewall Serum [11] (£73) is a powerful product that will repair fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage, as well as protect the skin against free radicals, tobacco, smoke, and pollution.
PRAI Hyaluronic Spray With Bluelight Defense
The PRAI Hyaluronic Spray With Bluelight Defense [12] (£30) is an innovative spray that will protect your skin from the blue light that is emitted by electronic devices. It contains hyaluronic acid for intense, lasting moisture, and its formula will reinflate your skin while blocking out the damaging blue light.
Vitage® Age Defence Power Skin Repair
The Vitage® Age Defence Power Skin Repair [13] (£49) is a moisturiser which will help replenish, repair, and brighten the skin thanks to its potent combination of antioxidants.
Sönd Gentle Daily Cleanser
The Sönd Gentle Daily Cleanser [14] (£22) is, as the name indicates, a gentle cleanser that will lift off impurities without stripping away your skin’s essential moisture.
The Hero Project Vit C-30 Ultra Brightening Serum
The Hero Project Vit C-30 Ultra Brightening Serum [15] (£39) is a powerful Vitamin C serum that will brighten the skin and help protect from further damage thanks to its stabilised Vitamin C and natural extracts of grapefruit and lemon. It's perfect for skin that’s seen some action and is in need of a good pamper session.
BRYT Essential Serum
The cruelty-free and vegan BRYT Essential Serum [16] (£16.50) is rich in natural oils and skin-balancing active ingredients, which penetrate deep down to cell level, helping to balance, revitalise, and maintain the skin’s natural equilibrium.
The Body Shop Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask
Enriched with matcha green tea from Kakegawa, Japan, the The Body Shop Japanese Matcha Tea Pollution Clearing Mask [17] (£17) will purify, gently exfoliate, and liberate your skin from the weekly buildup of city pollutants and everyday impurities, revealing radiant skin.