What's in the Air May Be Aging You

80% of the world's population breathes polluted air that exceeds recommended levels

From the LifeMinute team

Experts say the smog, dust, grime, and general air pollution is at an all time high and 90% of skin aging is caused by sun and pollution. These environmental factors can play a key role in the development of wrinkles, dark spots, dryness and loss of elasticity.

"We always thought the major players in skin aging were smoking and sun exposure, but now we know that there's evidence that pollution also causes significant changes in the skin," says dermatologist Dr. Lauri Tadlock.

And, the problem is not just limited to metropolitan areas. According to NASA, more than 80% of the world's population breathes polluted air that exceeds the World Health organization's recommended levels, affecting all ages and skin types.

In a recent study it was found that dangerously small pollution particles also called particulate matter, influenced skin aging. "Exposure to these fine particles significantly increased signs of aging like dark spots and wrinkling," says Dr. Tadlock.

According to the American Lung Association some of the top 25 top polluted cities for year-round particle pollution include:

Los Angeles
Chicago
Philadelphia
San Francisco (greater area)
Atlanta
Phoenix
Cleveland
Sacramento (greater area)
Pittsburgh
Cincinnati
Louisville
St. Louis
Indianapolis

Studies also show that using products that contain antioxidants such as green tea may combat pollutants in the skin. What else can we do to mitigate damage? "Make your skincare routine a priority," says Dr. Tadlock, "It really is essential to cleanse your skin thoroughly and gently.

The doctor recommends The Clarisonic Sonic skincare brush, which is clinically proven to remove pollution particles. In fact, it removes it 30-times better than cleansing manually alone.

Doctor Tadlock says "Clarisonic uses a patented sonic frequency that oscillates at more than 300 movements per second to gently flex and flush the pores of dirt, grime and environmental aggressors, helping fight the damaging and aging effects of pollution."

Visit Clarisonic.com to find the right device for your skin needs.

You can also "use a good moisturizer with broad-spectrum sunscreen so you block both UVB and UVA," says Dr. Tadlock "it's also important to take a daily supplement such as vitamin c and then use a topical antioxidant for your skin because that will create a barrier between your skin and the free radicals."

When you shower, watch your temperature. Hot water opens your pores, stripping away natural oils and causing skin to become dry. And by all means---don't smoke!

Dr. Tadlock says, "it looks like smoking decreases the micro-circulation to the skin narrowing the blood vessels, so you're basically starving your skin of oxygen."

We can't stop growing older, but we can protect against and help prevent nature's effects on our skin.

Sponsored