When living in such a big city such as Birmingham, there is the worry that your skin is going to suffer from the polluted air. This is only a natural worry when living in a city however, there are certain elements you can add to your skin-care routine to help keep your skin healthy and happy.
Wash your face twice a day
This may sound laborious however, you will want to remove all of the excess dirt and oil that has accumulated on your face throughout the day and leave your skin clean and able to rest and restore itself when you sleep. Wash your face once in the morning and once before you go to bed to keep your skin free of harmful dirt and pollutants from the air.
Use a facial scrub
Unlike a regular soap or cleanser, a facial scrub uses small particles, beads or natural chemicals to exfoliate the skin and get rid of the old skin cells to make way for new ones. The exfoliation helps soften and tone your skin along with removing grime and dirt. The right facial scrub can help keep your skin looking rejuvenated during your busy schedule, reduce acne break outs and even help maintain a clearer complexion. Try to look for soft facial scrubs so you are scratching your skin with harsh formulas and, so you do not over-dry your skin, I would recommend to only use your scrub once or twice a week.
Use a toner
Some people with dry or sensitive skin may be apprehensive to use a toner however, it can help remove any excess dirt and oil still sitting in your pores. Sometimes makeup wipes, makeup-removing creams and cleansers do not always reach far enough and by using a toner, you can help keep it clean and bright. The right toner for your skin type can help reduce the appearance of pores and restore your skins natural PH balance.
Moisturise!
Moisturising is an essential part of your skin care routine and when working in a busy city everyday, the moisturiser can act as a protective barrier against any airborne toxins. Your skin goes through so much and can easily become dehydrated and dried-out so by using a light-weight formula after you have cleansed your face helps soothe and hydrate your skin. Even if you have an oily complexion, the moisturiser hydrates your skin and does not overcompensate for dry skin and end up producing more oil.
Wear sunscreen
The pollution around us is having a major effect on the ozone layer and so we are becoming more susceptible to damaging sun rays. If you already have acne, hyper-pigmentation or inflammation of any kind, it can be worsened from UV exposure. Not to mention, an over exposure to UV rays can lead to skin cancer. A moisturiser with a SPF in it can help protect your skin in your everyday routine from the polluted world we live in.
