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Environmental pollution has become an unavoidable reality in the capital region as the air quality index increases. From smog-filled city air to fine particles flying indoors, pollutants are omnipresent, and they harm overall well-being. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep yourself safe and take action to protect yourself.
protect skin
Pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone and heavy metals generate free radicals, causing oxidative stress. This accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles, fine lines and loss of elasticity. They can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to a breakdown of the skin barrier and causing dryness and dehydration.
Dr. Atul Gupta, dermatologist at SkinAid Clinic, offers tips for creating an anti-pollution skin care routine:
- Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin.
- Antioxidant Protection: Add an antioxidant-rich serum or moisturizer to your routine with ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide, green tea, and resveratrol.
- Barrier Repair: Look for products with ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and peptides that help repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.
- Sun protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and added antioxidants to protect against environmental damage.
- Pollution-Blocking Products: Anti-pollution skin care products with ingredients like antioxidants, polymers, and marine extracts help block and neutralize pollutants.
- Regular exfoliation: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and pollutants that can clog pores.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and stay hydrated to maintain overall skin health.
respiratory health
The low temperatures and fog of winter prevent particles and pollutants from spreading upward, allowing them to persist in the environment and cause infections and lung diseases. “Air pollution is a significant concern in ENT OPDs due to its impact on respiratory and ENT health,” says Dr. Amit Kumar Sharma, senior consultant and head of the department of ENT, Cochlear Implant and Voice Disorders at Shalby Sanar International Hospital. Nasal Problems” Congestion and discharge, sore throat, cough and wheezing, stuffy ears and hearing loss, changes in voice, headache and facial pain are some of the common symptoms of ENT problems.
He suggests some preventive measures to maintain good respiratory health:
⦁ Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours
⦁ Wear a mask (N95 or FFP3)
⦁ Use an air purifier (HEPA filter)
⦁ Maintain good ventilation
⦁ Monitor the air quality index
⦁ Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
eye care
Our eyes come in contact with the pollutants present in the air the most. Twinkling lights and fireworks are beautiful during the festive season, but they can also cause harm if we are not careful. Dr Hiral Dodiya, senior consultant ophthalmologist, Shalby Hospital SG, says, “During Diwali, be careful of smoke, flying sparks and bright flashes which can put pressure on your eyes or damage them,” he adds , “Simple steps like keeping a safe distance from fireworks and wearing protective glasses can go a long way in keeping your vision healthy. Make the festival one to remember, not one to regret.”
In an era where air pollution is a daily challenge, adopting an anti-pollution routine is essential to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle.
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