Protect your skin from indoor pollution
Even if you’re not going out, your complexion can still suffer from indoor pollution – so ensure it stays at its best with our handy guide…
It’s been proven that pollution can cause harm to our skin, which can cause dullness, wrinkles and clogged pores. Statistics show that 92 per cent of the world’s population live in places where, pre-lockdown, air pollution levels exceeded the recommended limits set by the World Health Organisation. So even if you’re not living in a city centre, you’ll be affected. But most people don’t realise that there is such a thing as indoor pollution. In fact, nasties inside like dust can be up to five times stronger than in the air outside. As most of us stay at home at the moment, it’s important to help keep your skin protected.
CLEAN
1 Most pollution particles are around 40 times smaller than our pores, so it’s easy for them to settle deep and wreak havoc. This means it’s extra important to cleanse thoroughly, twice daily, and for long enough – massage the cleanser for at least 60 seconds so it really works. Wearing make-up? Try double cleansing – first to remove foundation and grime, then to deeply clean skin.
SHIELD
2 You may think you only need to wear SPF when you’re outside, but you should wear it every day. Find one that ensures protection from UVA and UVB rays and contains antioxidants, which are key pollution fighters. Look for products with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. You can also invest in an antioxidant mist to double up on protection.
BRIGHTEN
3 Pollution can leave skin looking dull and tired, so incorporate a gentle acid exfoliator into your routine after cleansing every other evening. It’ll buff away dead skin cells, deep clean, and leave your complexion looking healthy and radiant. Vitamin C is a natural brightener and antioxidant – use as a serum before applying moisturiser for best results.
BOOST YOUR SPACE
If room is limited, you’ll want to maximise every square foot you have.
Clear your floor and add interest to a tiny terrace by placing different levels of shelving to an existing wall or fence. This nifty ladder hack creates the perfect solution to allow you to showcase potted plants by using more space effectively. Vertical wall pouches can also turn the side of a balcony or garden into a decorative living wall. The result? Bags of colour, without having to sacrifice an inch.
Don’t let a modest garden stop you from having your morning cuppa in the fresh air – simply look for clever space-saving furniture. Invest in a compact dining solution, such as a half-sized table that slots neatly against a wall, or a foldable set that can be tucked away after use. Alternatively, outdoor floor cushions are less imposing than garden chairs, and are easy to pile on top of the other at the end of the day. With loads of patterns to choose from, they can brighten up any area.