Harmful environmental pollutants, such as airborne pollutants, ultraviolet radiation and infections, can cause premature ageing, acne, eczema, psoriasis and contact dermatitis.

• Pollution also affects our skin microbiome. Our skin consists of some bacteria, fungi or viruses, which are beneficial for our skin. Some of them fight against certain bacteria, which harms our skin and helps our immune system to respond effectively. In case of high pollution levels, the skin microbiome gets affected badly.
• Also, these microbiomes form a natural protective barrier to maintain skin hydration and remove allergens and bad bacteria. Pollution weakens the barriers that allow pollution to harm your skin.
• Pollution contains small particles that can pass to your skin surface and go deeper into skin layers and cause dehydration, inflammation, and reactions in your cells.

To protect your skin from pollution, stick to a good skincare routine involving a cleaner, scrub, toner and moisturiser. In case problems persist, consult a dermatologist for the appropriate advice.