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Skincare Products to Help Combat Pollution

Anti-Pollution Skincare to Add to Your Daily Routine
Design: theSkimm | Image: Fresh, Paula's Choice
February 27, 2023

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The reality is that existing in the world means regularly coming into contact with pollutants — from environmental contaminants to overexposure to blue light. We’ve rounded up some anti-pollution skincare products that may help protect against the damage they can cause. 

Anti pollution skincare
Ulta

Anti-pollution drops that’ll leave you glowing…

These Drunk Elephant drops provide a subtle just-got-back-from-the-beach glow all year long while defending skin against pollution and environmental stressors. The serum mimics vitamin C’s antioxidant effects and is designed to hydrate, soothe, and smooth. And it’s been formulated without harmful essential oils, silicones, chemical sunscreens, fragrances, dyes, or drying alcohols. Yes, please. ($36, Ulta)

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Anti pollution skincare setting spray
Nordstrom

A setting spray that acts as a protective barrier…

You might be familiar with this cult-fave Urban Decay product, and it’s notorious for good reason: It actually works to lower the temperature of your makeup to help it last longer. And the All-Nighter setting spray has had a makeover. This newer formula is made with minerals like zinc, magnesium, and copper that shield against environmental damage, protecting your skin from free radicals. ($21.99, Nordstrom

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Anti Pollution skincare
Sephora

Antioxidant essence that helps to brighten and even skin tone…

With kombucha as its primary ingredient, this product is ideal for tackling skincare concerns like dark marks, wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness. Customers rave about the visible improvement they’ve seen in their skin and say it’s worth every penny. ($108, Sephora)

Buy it at SephoraBuy it at Fresh
anti pollution skincare
Skin Store

A moisturizer designed to strengthen the skin’s barrier overnight…

This vitamin C night cream is made with a sunflower, cucumber, and barley botanical blend designed to nourish the skin’s moisture barrier — and counter pollution-related dehydration, dullness, and rough texture. Use it as the last step in your nighttime skincare routine, and apply on your face, neck, and chest area for allover hydration. ($83, SkinStore

Buy it at Skin Store Buy it at Murad
Anti pollution skincare
Sephora

A serum that’ll protect your skin from environmental pollution and blue light…

These anti-pollution drops are made with hyaluronic acid for hydration, exopolysaccharide for defense against pollution, and purslane to reduce visible irritation. They’re ideal for concerns like dullness, fine lines, and dark circles, and are designed to work with all skin types. The lightweight serum is intended to help protect against everyday pollutants as well as blue light damage. ($150, Sephora)

Buy it at SephoraBuy it at Dr. Barbara Sturm
Anti pollution skincare
Amazon

Cleansing pads that remove daily pollution…

Keep this on you when you’re traveling, or heading to the gym, or if you just don’t have the time to hop in the shower. (Been there.) The rosewater and mint-infused cotton pads are made from a blend of antioxidant-rich extracts, Echium oil, vitamin E, and more. Use it in the AM for a morning refresh and in the evening to remove dirt and buildup. ($26, Amazon)

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Anti pollution skincare
Paula's Choice

A pore cleanser that’ll depuff and brighten…

This lightweight fluid is packed with ingredients designed to fight airborne pollutants, neutralize blue light exposure, and brighten skin. Salicylic acid also works to clear and refine your pores. Psst…the brand’s Defense line also features a face wash, moisturizer, and night cream. ($28, Paula’s Choice)

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Anti pollution skincare
Ilia

Misting spray that helps protect against blue light…

This one’s not a one-trick pony. Not only does it defend skin from the harmful effects of blue light and pollution, but it also hydrates and sets makeup with no residue left behind. It’s a natural de-stressor thanks to its calming lavender scent and can be used throughout the day — whenever you need a lil’ pick-me-up. ($18, Ilia)

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Anti pollution skincare
Amazon

A face mask that’s ideal for city dwellers….

Made with algae, kelp, and banana, this sheet mask is designed to fight against invisible toxins like smoke and pollution. It’s 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances. New skincare routine essential? We think so. ($4, Amazon)

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