Whenever you step outside, your skin confronts numerous environmental toxins and pollutants from smog, exhaust, cigarette smoke and other harmful particles. As you go about your day, these particles just sit on your skin, Howard Murad, M.D., an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at University of California, Los Angeles, says in Cookie magazine. All of these pollutants cause damage to your skin over time, leaving it deprived of oxygen and more likely to age faster. However, there are things you can do to protect your skin from pollutants and to keep your face looking young and beautiful for many years to come.
Step 1
Wash your face with a mild cleanser each morning and evening. This will remove your makeup and oil, to be certain, but it also will wash away the dirt and impurities you accumulate from pollution throughout the day, according to the KidsHealth website.
Step 2
Use moisturizers and other skin care products that are loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C and E, recommends Cookie magazine. This will protect your skin from pollution and free radicals given off by pollution, which can cause fast aging and even cancer.
Step 3
Avoid smoky environments, whether they are barbecues or the smokers' area outside of buildings. Smoke can age your skin very quickly and should be avoided. Likewise, it's important to quit smoking if you currently do.
Step 4
Wear sunscreen every day, no excuses. A formula that contains at least SPF 30 is best, says KidsHealth, as this will protect you from the sun's damaging rays, which can cause premature aging and skin cancer.
Step 5
Exercise at least four times a week. By making it a point to get your heart rate up, you'll boost blood flow and the supply of oxygen to your skin. The better your blood is pumping, the better your skin will look.
Step 6
Include fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet to provide adequate nutrition and to help your body fight off pollutants you take in throughout the day. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day as well to flush out toxins and to keep your skin looking radiant.
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