As the world's eye shifts to the damaging effects of environmental change and excess pollution, we look at the latest innovations in skincare and beauty to tackle the daily dirt of city life.
City life has many plusses; coffee on every corner and a surplus of shops, restaurants, exercise classes and entertainment to keep our pulses pumping. But living in a city is not without its sacrifices – an increase in rent and a decrease in the overall condition of our skin to name a couple. From the moment we set foot onto the pavement our skin is exposed to pollutants, radiation and free radicals at every turn. Sounds stressful? Stress is also a citywide culprit known for aiding the deterioration of our skin, causing premature aging and even acne. It’s time lower those levels and deploy our defence strategy.
Here we share the key cosmetics to combat city skin.
By Laura Beaney
Multitasking Make-up
Photo-damage is cause for concern, whether at the beach, at the desk, or walking the city streets. Lancaster’s Full Light protection, 365 Sun Compact not only contains SPF 30 for daily sun protection, but also protects against environmental damage – pollution and oxidative stress that could disrupt the integrity of your DNA. As a beauty bonus, the compact enhances your natural tan and uses an emollient formula to provide moisture.
City Cleanse
A city-dweller’s daily inhalation of excess air-conditioning and airborne pollutants can contribute to cell damage, which in turn can cause premature ageing, dryness and dullness. Incorporate a cleanser that stimulates cell renewal and helps to heal like this natural option from Herbal Essentials. The gentle cleansing milk uses naturally skin-healing aloe vera and sweet almond to boost blood circulation and replenish lost moisture.
Moisturise With Minimal Ingredients
La Solution 10 De Chanel’s unique formula utilises just 10 carefully selected ingredients such as rare Silver Needle Tea to combat known skin aggressors such as pollution, climate change and non-invasive treatments such as microdermabrasion. Acting as a soothing and gentle moisturiser, the oil-free, antioxidant-rich formulation helps to regulate the skin’s response to irritants and protects against free radicals.
Night Care & Repair
After a day exposed to polluted air and second-hand smoke, Guerlain’s Detoxifying Essence helps to remove impurities and revive the skin. Designed to optimise the skin’s natural detoxifying process, the formulation blends powerful cell purifiers such as Purifynol and Gold Orchid Technology with detoxifying and anti-ageing ingredients. Use at night after cleansing and moisturising.
A Masque To Renew & Revitalise
Work a weekly at-home masque into your city skin-saving routine. Dior’s Ultra-Detox One Essential Restorative Masque eliminates urban toxins with a high concentration of Détoxinyle – an active ingredient that diffuses into the heart of cells to renew and revitalise, revealing fresher looking skin.
