Did you know that UV radiation has been linked to 80% of skin issues including aging, dryness, dark spots and wrinkles? Environmental stressors like UV radiation, air pollution and extreme weather changes contribute to major skin problems that we face in our everyday life.
With more than half of the Earth’s population living in urban areas, we’re exposed to the environmental stressors that significantly take a toll on your skin. While avoiding environmental factors isn’t realistic, we can take active steps to protect and repair our skin.
So, in this article, we’ll be talking about all the environmental factors that affect our skin and how to combat them with a few changes that your skin would love!
Understanding Environmental Factors that Affect Skin
Environmental damage to the skin occurs through a combination of factors that directly or indirectly affect the skin. Here’s the breakdown of the environmental factors that give birth to many skin problems.
Air Pollution
If we talk about urban areas specifically, the air in such areas contains tiny particles made up of chemicals emitted from vehicles, factories, and industries. These particles conveniently settle on the skin's surface, clogging pores and often leading to problems like skin congestion, breakouts, Irritation, dull complexion, and much more. Long-term exposure to these pollutants can permanently damage the skin’s barrier and give birth to sensitivity.
Air pollutants also release free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. These free radicals are responsible for breaking down collagen that eventually leads to wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging. When exposed to these pollutants, the skin activates its defense mechanism and starts producing melanin, giving rise to uneven skin texture and pigmentation.
Extreme Temperature
The cold climate takes a significant toll on the skin as it strips the skin of its natural oils, and the skin holds less moisture. This makes the skin dry and flakey, eventually promoting skin aging. The circulation in the skin is also reduced significantly due to colder temperatures, which slows down skin regeneration, making skin look dull.
When it comes to high temperature and humid weather, the skin produces more oil which disrupts the moisture balance. As a result, the pores on the skin start clogging and it becomes prone to acne and breakouts. Other than that, warm temperatures give rise to heat induced rash which can be highly uncomfortable if not managed properly.
Ultra Violet Radiations
While the sun is essential for the absorption of Vitamin D, prolonged exposure to sunlight, which contains UV rays, can lead to severe skin issues. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn while UVA rays penetrate more deeply, causing photoaging, which is premature aging because of sun exposure. The prolonged exposure to these rays contributes significantly to skin cancer. Other than that, UV radiation also breaks down collagen and messes up the skin’s elasticity, making it appear more wrinkly, pigmented, and dull.
Blue Light and HEV Light
Our phones, computers and other devices emit HEV or Blue Lights that penetrate even the deepest layer of the skin, which can give rise to pigmentation issues and collagen breakdown. According to research, exposure to these lights for as little as one hour can increase free radical production, which leads to oxidative stress and skin damage quite similar to UV exposure.
Natural Ingredients that Help in Fighting Back the Damage
Image by Arthur Chapman on Flickr
There are many plant-based and antioxidant ingredients that play an important role in reducing the damage and even defending the skin from them. Rich in compounds, these natural ingredients repair the damage caused by Pollution, UV rays and Blue Light.
- Botanical Vitamin C, which is mainly found in Kakadu Plum, is an excellent ingredient to promote collagen production and reduce dark spots.
- Hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid lock in moisture in the skin and prevent dryness and flakiness.
- Ingredients like Vitamin E shield the skin against HEV Light, helping in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing pigmentation.
Product Recommendation for a Healthy Looking Skin
Here’s a complete guide on which products to use in order to combat environmental skin damage.
Cleanser
The first step in repairing and maintaining healthy skin should be a cleanser, preferably a vegan and cruelty-free one. Look for ingredients like Green Tea Extract, Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamin C, or Rosemary to freshen up the skin and get rid of all the accumulated dirt in your pores.
Serum
Opt for a serum that is rich in Vitamin C to protect your skin against daily environmental stressors. Shâwelle’s Active Serum contains nourishing ingredients like Kakadu Plum Oil (rich in Vitamin C) and Aloe Vera that not only brighten up your complexion but also help with collagen production and soothing irritated skin.
Moisturizer
A Moisturizer should be an essential part of everyone’s skin care routine that should never be skipped. Choose a moisturizer rich in hydrating ingredients like Kakadu Plum Oil or Aloe Vera Extract and Ectoin. These ingredients are essential for protecting the skin barrier and maintaining moisture balance. Shâwelle’s Crème de la Crème Treatment Moisturiser has all of those ingredients that not only hydrate the skin but also reduce inflammation, irritation, fine lines and also reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture.
Sunscreen
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with added antioxidants like Vitamin E or botanical extracts. Look for formulas that protect against both UVA and UVB, as well as HEV light, commonly emitted by digital screens. Antioxidants in sunscreens boost the skin’s defense and keep it young for a longer period of time.
Face Oil
At night, apply a repair oil with ingredients like Sandalwood Seed Oil, Olive Oil and Jojoba Seed Oil that help regenerate and repair skin while it sleeps at night. Our Power Oil contains all those natural ingredients that not only rejuvenate skin but also fade dark spots and wrinkles with consistent use.
Final Verdict
In today’s world, nobody is safe from environmental stressors that have adverse effects on our skin. While these stressors seem unavoidable, you can always take a step back and incorporate better skin care choices in your life to protect and nurture your skin. So, take charge of your skin and give it the protection and love it deserves!
