THE SPA TREATMENTS
significantly worse skin hydration and barrier function than those in the least. Meanwhile, in Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University conducted a study of 400 women which showed that high exposure to PM increased pigmentation between 20 and 22 per cent, while also causing more pronounced deep wrinkles from the nose to mouth; an indicator of age that we could all do without.
Fear not, though, the experts are busy working on a cocktail of solutions. The most important advice they have? Cleanse, cleanse, and cleanse again. By removing the toxins, we minimise the harm they can do. Clarisonic’s travel-size Mia Sonic Cleansing Brush is an excellent place to start because – thanks to its oscillating head that works like an electric toothbrush – it removes 30 times more pollution than manual washing. Follow with a tailored cleanser like Clarins’ Extra Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream; reformulated to specifically target pollutant residue and remove up to 94 per cent of dirt particles.
To combat any damage that has been done, invest in products that can repair and replenish the skin’s barrier function. “Antioxidants, vitamins and Coenzyme-Q10 will help suppress inflammation and quell pollutiongenerated stress,” explains Dr Eckel. Estée Lauder’s been banging this drum since 1997 with its DayWear line. Its latest formulation, DayWear Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Crème, sees five potent antioxidants combined for eight hours of enhanced barrier protection, while fighting free radical damage. Impressive.
After night-time cleansing, we need products that optimise the all-important skin cell repair cycle. Lavera’s Basis Sensitiv Anti-Ageing Night Cream Q10 is rich in restorative antioxidants and deeply-hydrating organic shea butter. Kiehl’s new Iris Extract Activating Treatment Essence is similarly high-achieving, with Lipo Hydroxy Acids activating the skin’s natural exfoliation process, then smoothing fine lines and combating aging.
Next to knock out? Pigmentation. One of the best products available is Shiseido’s Intensive Anti-Spot Serum. The Asian beauty market is way ahead of us with anti-pollutant skincare, and this serum was launched by the Japanese brand in 2012, offering pigment-reducing results similar to laser treatment. It does this by stimulating and replacing lost proteins that can trigger cell renewal. The clever folk at Lancôme have also been commandeering knowledge from that part of the world, introducing a new HydraZen range aimed at sensitive urban skins and combating environmental stress on the face.
However, because prevention is always better than cure, investing in smart protection products is key. This March, Clarins launched UV Plus Anti-Pollution Day Screen SPF50. Formulated with natural mineral titanium dioxide filters, this cream remains on the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed, which means serious barrier protection against ozone toxins and particle matter. And don’t forget to put a vitamin-enriched primer like Prestige Cosmetics’ Primed & Ready under your foundation too.
For all these technological advancements in skincare, one of the best pieces of advice is also the simplest: eat your greens. A recent clinical trial conducted in Jiangsu (one of China’s most polluted regions), showed that eating a daily portion of broccoli made people 61 per cent more effective at expelling toxins associated with particle and ozone pollution. We’ve got a great recipe if you want it… ■ FOR HAIR… KETOX AT AACSH Your hair is at risk too, you know. Luckily Ketox has been created by specialists to treat damage with antioxidants, natural oils and keratin, via a hydrotherapy massage that deep cleans the nasties out and penetrates goodness in. From Dhs600, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital, Dubai Healthcare City aacsh.com FOR FACE… DR BABOR COLLAGEN BOOSTER TREATMENT AT THE LOFT FIFTH AVENUE, WASL VITA, CITY WALK AND THE DUBAI MALL A deep cleanse is critical in fighting pollutants, and collagen is key in repairing marks of aging. Enter this facial, which brilliantly plumps skin from the inside. Take that, smog! Dhs420, The Loft Fifth Avenue theloftfifthavenue.com FOR BODY… ULTIMATE DETOX RASUL AT FAIRMONT THE PALM Fancy a full-body detoxification that leaves no stone unturned? Get all those pollutants out with an argan body scrub, face and body mask that removes impurities and a full body lymphatic massage. Good as new. Dhs705, Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont The Palm, Dubai fairmont.com