If you feel that your lungs are groaning from breathing in harmful air, trust us, your skin feels exactly the same way! Pollutants sneak their way through the cell membrane and settle on various layers of skin, wreaking havoc. On an ordinary day, this is bad enough. During Diwali, the levels of pollution multiply manifold, thanks to the smoke and smog caused by firecrackers. Of course, staying indoors with an air purifier helps, but that’s not ideal if you want to partake in the festivities! You can, however, keep a few pointers in mind to pollution-proof your skin before, during, and after the celebrations.
Understand What Free Radicals Can Do
One of the byproducts of excess pollution during Diwali is free radicals. Scientifically speaking, free radicals are electrically charged molecules that attack the healthy cells in your body. Free radicals cause a chain reaction. This means that if one cell is destroyed, it impacts the next cell, and the next since they tear through the cell membrane. The end result? Skin damage and aging. The function and structure of the cells are compromised, leading to oxidation or oxidative stress. Excess exposure to free radicals can cause fine lines, wrinkles, uneven and dull skin tone, and loss of firmness and elasticity.
Use Antioxidants
Simply put, antioxidants are your best friends during this season, working against free radicals. These are your number one go-to protectors against pollution since they can delay or prevent cellular damage caused by oxidation. Dermatologist Dr Prithi Krishna says, ‘In the days leading up to Diwali, it is important to use antioxidants topically, and also include them in your diet. Look for skincare products that contain Vitamins C, E, and retinoids. More importantly, focus on nutrition, protecting your skin and body from the inside out. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables (pomegranates, apples, kale, broccoli, turmeric), as well as foods rich in zinc and selenium. Improve your hydration by drinking water and tender coconut water. Switch to green tea whenever possible.’
Protect Your Skin Barrier
Dr Prithi adds, ‘During Diwali, wear a moisturising mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. A moisturiser is so important, because pollution can really dry out your skin. You need something with emolliating benefits to counter that. Choose a moisturiser with ceramides, which create an increased barrier for the skin. Another ingredient that improves the skin barrier is hyaluronic acid. I would recommend using it in a night serum all the time, but especially during the Diwali week. Wear a mask when you step out. This may not cover all of your face, but you’ll be able to safeguard your lips from chapping, and a good part of your cheeks. Your eyes are especially sensitive, so use a day cream and night serum for it, preferably with ferulic acid as well.’
Don’t Use Too Many Surfactants
Dr Prithi also cautions against using too many surfactants. ‘These are cleansers that dissolve and remove dirt from the skin’s surface. Now fine dust and firecracker residue may lodge itself within your pores, and require cleansing. So of course, cleansers are required to combat pollution in that sense. But overuse can also damage the skin by removing lipids, resulting in increased skin roughness and transepidermal water loss. Surfactants can vary in strength and harshness. If you have oily skin, avoid harsh surfactants as they will misbalance your skin’s pH level and can damage the skin’s protective barrier. Use a very mild and gentle cleanser.’
Consider A Facial To Combat Pigmentation
Post Diwali, continue your diet and skincare regimen for as long as possible, but also consider professional spa treatments to counter pollution. Opt for a facial from a trusted space to improve elasticity and combat pigmentation and discolouration, evening out your skin tone. A facial also helps to cause microcirculation, purifying the blood and dislodging deep-seated toxins. Using a facial massager reinforces cell strength, improving skin resilience.
Boost Collagen Production
Air pollution is one of the leading causes of the impairment of collagen synthesis, so Diwali may cause your skin’s collagen and elastin to deplete very rapidly, if you’re not careful. Some dermatologists recommend prebiotics and probiotics in your skincare and diet to combat this. Curd face masks and kombucha can help, but look for dermatologically-approved products to help you along the way as well.
Watch Out For Skin Conditions
Excess pollution can also cause skin inflammations like rosacea and eczema, so keep an eye out for these if they do surface. Even if they don’t sensitive skin is often prone to acne and rashes, so follow preventive steps – in this case, an ounce of prevention really is better than cure!