In the September issue of Vogue, the feature “Something in the Air” spotlights the connection between climate change and a steady increase in airborne pollutants—and their resulting assault on your skin, hair, and health. This invisible attack on your immune system surfaces in several forms, from rising temperatures creating skin-irritating “pollen tsunamis” to surges in ozone emissions (which create smog) that dull hair and stipple your complexion with fine lines and hyperpigmentation. “There are clear data that airborne particulate matter has an association with more dark spots on your skin and a slight increase in the number of wrinkles,” says dermatologist Arash Mostaghimi, M.D. Other than checking the ozone level as frequently as you tune in to the weather each morning (a common practice in Asia that’s making its way into health-conscious Americans’ routines)—or wearing a medical-grade face mask—what can you do to protect yourself?
Beauty companies are taking defensive measures, with a new guard of products designed to shield hair and skin from the elements. “The skin is our largest organ in the body, and it’s your first barrier to environmental allergens and airborne pollution,” explains Aisha Sethi, M.D., associate professor of dermatology and infectious diseases at the University of Chicago. Origins led the charge in skin care this year with their Mega-Defense line of skin barrier-boosting sunscreen and face oil, while hair-care brands like Philip Kingsley and IGK are infusing treatments, shampoos, and sprays with ingredients that protect against airborne aggressors (and repair existing breakage).
However you decide to safeguard yourself, consider boosting your protective product game the same way you layer on SPF: better to focus on prevention now than damage control later. Above, 12 ways to step up your first line of defense.
The post Is Climate Change Aging You? 12 Beauty Products That Protect Against Pollution appeared first on Vogue.
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