7 expert-approved treatments to protect your skin from harmful effects of pollution

Pollution is becoming a bigger worry each day in terms of its impact on both your health and the environment. From air and water pollution to toxic chemicals in your surroundings, the harmful effects are widespread. The constant exposure to pollutants not only harms your internal organs but also takes a visible toll on your skin. As the body’s largest organ, the skin is directly exposed to these environmental stressors, which can trigger premature aging, breakouts, pigmentation, and a dull, uneven complexion.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99 percent of the global population lives in areas with unsafe levels of air pollution, says Dr Priyanka Ratnapurollu, Aesthetic Physician at Reaviva Holistic Health. “These environmental stressors contain harmful particles like fine dust, heavy metals, and chemicals that, over time, can damage the skin's natural barrier, leading to premature aging, clogged pores, and a compromised skin texture. The toxic particles can penetrate the skin, causing inflammation, free radical damage, and oxidative stress, which accelerate ageing and worsen skin conditions,” she adds.

To protect and restore your skin’s health, it's vital to include effective treatments that counteract these pollutants. “Advanced aesthetic treatments now offer specialised solutions to detoxify, rejuvenate, and shield the skin from pollution-induced damage,” suggests Dr Ratnapurollu.

Also read | How to nourish your skin during winter pollution for healthy glow: Cleanse, moisturise, nourish

Here are 7 professional treatments, recommended by Dr Ratnapurollu, that help keep your skin glowing and pollution-free:

• Hydra facial: Hydra facial is a multi-step treatment that deep cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin. It targets pollutants that clog pores, such as dirt, oil, and toxins. By removing these impurities and infusing the skin with nourishing serums, The treatment leaves the skin looking refreshed, and hydrated. This treatment is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and works to address the immediate effects of pollution exposure.

• Chemical peels: The exfoliating acids like glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid help to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell turnover. These peels address skin dullness, uneven texture, and pigmentation caused by environmental stressors. Regular peels may help reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and sun damage. The acids penetrate the skin to target deeper layers, detoxifying and renewing the skin from the inside out.

• Microdermabrasion: It is a non-invasive technique that uses fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to exfoliate the skin’s surface. This treatment helps remove pollutants that have settled on the skin, leaving it smoother, and more even-toned. It also improves the absorption of skincare products, providing longer-lasting benefits. Microdermabrasion may be good for those looking to target surface-level issues such as dullness and clogged pores.

• Carbon laser peel: It is an advanced treatment that combines a carbon-based lotion with laser technology to deeply cleanse and detoxify the skin. The carbon mask absorbs impurities from deep within the pores, while the laser energy removes the carbon, along with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. This treatment helps tighten pores, reduce acne, and stimulate collagen production.

• Oxygen therapy: Exposure to pollution can deplete oxygen levels in the skin, leading to a tired and lackluster appearance. Oxygen therapy replenishes this lost oxygen while simultaneously delivering essential nutrients to the skin. The treatment hydrates, revitalises, and brightens the skin, restoring its natural glow. This is an ideal treatment for those who struggle with dull, dehydrated skin or want to boost their complexion’s radiance after prolonged exposure to environmental stressors.

• Facial lymphatic drainage: Facial lymphatic drainage is a type of massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system to help detoxify the skin and reduce puffiness. It boosts circulation and promotes the removal of toxins from the skin, which is particularly beneficial for those experiencing inflammation and puffiness due to pollution. This treatment helps rejuvenate the skin, improve tone, and provide a more youthful appearance.

• LED light therapy: This uses different wavelengths of light to target various skin concerns. Red light stimulates collagen production and repairs the skin barrier, while blue light fights acne-causing bacteria. This treatment may help reduce inflammation, fight acne, and improve skin texture. Regular sessions help strengthen the skin's natural defenses against environmental damage.