What is smog?
Smog is the result of complex processes associated with human activities and specific weather conditions. In its formation, emissions from transport, industry and households play an important role, which accumulate under favorable atmospheric phenomena. When there is a lack of wind, air pollution rises in the form of a suspended fog, making breathing difficult and negatively affecting the condition of the complexion.
There are two main types of smog. The first of these is London-type smog — typical for the temperate climate and frequent in Poland during the heating season. It contains dust, soot and oxides of sulfur and nitrogen. The second type is Los Angeles-type smog, characteristic of warmer regions of the world — it is produced by chemical reactions between oxides and hydrocarbons in the presence of solar radiation.
What does smog consist of?
Smog is not a homogeneous substance, but a complex mixture of harmful components that can penetrate deep into the skin and disrupt its natural functions. One of the main components of smog is particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5 — microscopic particles formed from tire wear, fuel combustion or soot. Depositing on the surface of the skin, they lead to irritation and disruption of protective barriers.
The composition of smog also contains oxides of nitrogen and sulfur, which can increase oxidative stress, causing excessive effects of free radicals. In conditions of insufficient urban ventilation and high traffic, carbon monoxide is also formed, which worsens the condition of blood vessels and promotes the formation of pigmentation disorders. Another dangerous component is polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons - which have a strong carcinogenic effect.
How is smog formed?
The process of smog formation is the result of the overlap of different emission sources and adverse weather conditions. In the heating season, we are most often faced with the so-called classic smog. It is formed as a result of emissions of sulfur oxides and particulate matter from the combustion of coal in obsolete furnaces. Low temperature, high humidity and lack of air movements favor its stay just above the ground.
In summer, another type of pollution appears — photochemical smog. It is formed as a result of chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, which occur under the influence of UV radiation. As a result, tropospheric ozone is formed — a harmful gas that affects the respiratory system, but also aggravates skin problems.
What is the effect of smog on the skin?
Pollution contained in smog not only settles on the skin, but also penetrates inside it through the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Their destructive effect weakens the hydrolipid barrier, leads to overdrying and even hyperkeratosis of the epidermis. The skin becomes more susceptible to infections and inflammation, and it also loses its healthy glow and elasticity.
Contact with heavy metals promotes microcirculation disorders and damage to collagen and elastin fibers. As a result, there is a faster formation of wrinkles, loss of firmness, deterioration of color and aggravation of existing dermatological problems. Oxidative stress also contributes to the formation of hyperpigmentation and premature aging, which is why protecting the skin from smog becomes an absolute necessity.
Smog and complexion - how to protect the skin of the face from pollution?
Contact with polluted air requires a comprehensive approach in daily care. It is important not only to thoroughly cleanse the skin, but also to protect it from the effects of harmful external factors.
Cleansing
Thorough cleansing of the face is the first step in protecting yourself from smog. In the morning and evening, it is necessary to remove accumulated toxins from the surface of the skin, not forgetting about mild cleansers. Thanks to this, you can reduce the risk of clogging pores and reduce the formation of inflammation.
The use of antioxidants
Anti-smog cosmetics often contain active ingredients with antioxidant effects, such as vitamin C. Antioxidant serum neutralizes the effects of free radicals, promotes regeneration and improves skin condition, reducing the effects of smog.
Humidification
Contaminants can reduce the moisture level of the skin. It is worth using a moisturizer that will restore its hydration and help restore the protective barrier of the skin. Regardless of the type of skin, hydration is essential to maintain its health and firmness.
SPF protection
Not only in summer, but throughout the year it is necessary to use sunscreens. UV radiation in combination with smog accelerates aging processes and increases the risk of discoloration. Protective creams should be part of every care routine.
Strengthening the protective barrier
It is worth reaching for preparations containing ceramides and other substances that support the lipid barrier. The reinforced protective barrier limits the penetration of harmful compounds into the deeper layers of the skin and promotes its intensive regeneration.
Avoiding sources of pollution
Wherever possible, it is advisable to limit exposure to smog - for example by bypassing the main communication arteries or avoiding physical activity outdoors on days with high concentrations of particulate matter.
Protecting the skin from smog with the help of effective treatments
Anti-smog cosmetology is not only home care, but also professional procedures that improve the skin's resistance to harmful environmental factors. Modern treatments performed in beauty salon in Warsaw allow not only to cleanse the complexion, but also to restore its healthy appearance, improve skin elasticity and strengthen its protective barrier.
Micro-needle radiofrequency
The procedure consists in the simultaneous micro-puncture of the skin and the delivery of radio wave energy to it. Thin needles create microtraumas in the surface of the skin, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin. The radio wave heats the deeper layers of the skin, which results in its tension and regeneration.
Micro-needle radiofrequency provides an improvement in firmness, reduction of wrinkles and visible rejuvenation. It is especially recommended for people whose complexion has been weakened by the effects of smog. The parameters of the treatment are adapted to the type of skin and the needs of the skin — this allows for a targeted and safe action. The procedure does not require a long recovery, and its effects are long-term.
What are the effects of microneedling radiofrequency?
The microneedle radiofrequency treatment brings noticeable results after the first session — the skin becomes more taut and its elasticity improves. As the collagen fibers begin to shrink, there is a marked improvement in the structure of the skin and its smoothing.
With regular use, especially in a series of 3—5 treatments, a reduction in acne scars and wrinkles can be observed, as well as improving the overall condition of the skin. Its surface becomes smoother, more uniform and less susceptible to smog. The results obtained last even for several months.
LED Light Therapy
This treatment involves irradiating the skin with specialized LED lamps that emit waves of different lengths and colors. In the context of pollution, the most important are violet, blue, yellow and red lights — they show soothing, anti-inflammatory, stimulating microcirculation and supporting detoxification.
LED Light Therapy improves the condition of the skin, evens out its tone, affects the protective barrier and accelerates regenerative processes. Red and infrared light reach the deep layers of the skin, supporting the removal of toxins and strengthening collagen structures. This treatment is safe, non-invasive and well tolerated even by sensitive skin exposed to smog.
Why choose LED light therapy?
Already after the first treatment, the skin looks more rested and its tone is leveled. Gentle LED light acts on different layers of the skin, stimulating its natural regenerative processes without disturbing its structure.
Regular treatments - usually in a series of 8 to 12 sessions - allow you to notice a marked improvement in firmness, reduction of wrinkles and reduction of acne symptoms. The treatment supports the treatment of skin lesions, supports the work of blood vessels and strengthens the skin's defenses. The effects that last for many months make LED therapy an effective form of protection against the harmful effects of the environment.
FAQ:
1. How to effectively protect the skin from smog?
The daily routine should include cleansing, moisturizing and applying SPF filters. It is worth including anti-pollution creams that create a protective layer and reduce the penetration of impurities into the deeper structures of the skin. This type of facial skin care helps to reduce the influence of harmful factors and supports its regeneration.
2. How does smog affect your skin?
Smog leads to overdrying, clogging of pores and disturbances within the lipid barrier. It can contribute to the formation of wrinkles, loss of firmness and intensification of inflammation. Prolonged exposure to smog weakens the skin's natural protection and takes away its healthy glow, worsening the overall appearance of the complexion.
3. Do professional treatments improve skin condition in urban environments?
Yes — microneedle radiofrequency and LED therapy strengthen the skin's protective barrier, stimulate collagen production and accelerate regeneration. Regular sessions improve skin elasticity, promote detoxification and allow you to maintain a healthy appearance despite the effects of smog.
Sources:
Adamkiewicz, L., & Matyasik, N. (2019). Smog in Poland and its consequences (Working paper No. 5/2019, pp. 5—6). Polish Institute of Economics.
Drakaki, E., Dessinioti, C., & Antoniou, CV (2014). Air pollution and the skin. Frontiers in Environmental Science, 2, Article 11.
Puri, P., Nandar, S.K., Kathuria, S., & Ramesh, V. (2017). Effects of air pollution on the skin: A review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 83(4), 415—423.
