Skincare
The dirt particles and pollutants in the air make your skin dull and clog the pores, leading to breakouts and acne; hence, it is important to keep the pores clean. The three-step process of cleaning, scrubbing and moisturising comes in handy here. Cleanse your face well once you enter your home. Choose moisturisers like bees wax, niacin-amide, glycerine and lanolin. Scrub your face at least once a week so that the pores are cleaned.
Some experts recommend a charcoal scrub. A charcoal facial can be your answer to harmful effects of pollution or smog. It comes with the goodness of bamboo charcoal which is known for its skin purifying properties. Like a powerful magnet, the charcoal draws out all the impurities, dirt and pollutants. This keeps your pores clean and the excess oil in control.
Use a pollution-defying essence or serum to help prevent the dust from getting inside the skin’s pores. They are rich in ascorbic acid and other antioxidants like Vitamin E which further help in building the skin’s defence system.
Clay-based masks with hydrating properties can help replenish nutrients beneficial to the skin. Curd (which is rich in probiotics) with honey and lemon juice with a pinch of turmeric can help. Curd hydrates and also replenishes the skin. Honey hydrates as well. Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C, which removes unwanted tan. And turmeric works as a detoxifier and an antibiotic, removing any allergies and bacteria.
You can also take daily actions to minimize your exposure to air pollution and to improve the protection of your health:
* Conserve Mother Earth’s energy – at home, at work, everywhere.
* Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying home or office equipment.
* Carpool, use public transportation, bike, or walk whenever possible.
* Follow gasoline refuelling instructions for efficient vapour recovery. Be careful not to spill fuel and always tighten your gas cap securely.
* Consider purchasing portable gasoline containers labelled “spill-proof,” where available.
* Keep car, boat, and other engines properly tuned.
* Be sure your tires are properly inflated.
* Use environmentally safe paints and cleaning products whenever possible.
* Mulch or compost leaves and yard waste.
* Consider using gas logs instead of wood.
On days that High Particle Levels are expected, take these extra steps to reduce pollution:
* Reduce the number of trips you take in your car.
* Reduce or eliminate fireplace and wood stove use.
* Avoid burning leaves, trash, and other materials.
* Avoid using gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.
On days that High Ozone Levels are expected, take these extra steps to reduce pollution:
* Choose a cleaner commute; share a ride to work or use public transportation.
* Combine errands and reduce trips. Walk to errands when possible.
* Avoid excessive idling of your auto-mobile.
* Refuel your car in the evening when it’s cooler.
* Conserve electricity and set air conditioners no lower than 78 degrees.
* Defer lawn and gardening chores that use gasoline-powered equipment, or wait until evening.
I hope you will find some helpful tips in here. And if by any chance, you happen to have any secret remedy rolled up your sleeves then please, do share it with us.
