I recently returned to NYC after traveling on a snowboarding tour. After spending weeks in fresh air and mountains, I could tell almost immediately when I returned to NYC. No, it wasn’t just the jackhammers outside my apartment or the sulfuric steam coming from the manholes -it was the change in my skin. Specifically my facial skin becomes more sensitive and my body skin gets drier. If you live in a city you absolutely have to take extra steps in caring for your complexion. It simply does not stay as lively and healthy as if you lived in the Colorado Rockies where there is abundant greenery, clean air, and nearly no pollution.
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In fact, researchers predict that pollution-caused aging will soon be as significant as UV rays! Pollution has been linked to skin dehydration, dark spots, lines and sensitivity. Exhaust fumes, industrial smoke and free radicals are so abundant that 92% of the world’s population is breathing in polluted air.
So, if you’ve noticed your skin changes when you hit an urban area, you’re not imagining things; the (struggle) change is real! Here are our tips for keeping your skin healthy in urban areas.
Over Compensate with Water
We know you’ve heard it before. This is no new concept, but you must, must drink plenty of water in urban areas. While you might get away with not drinking as much h20 in rural and suburban areas, cities will literally suck the life right out of you. So, if you normally drink 4 glasses of water per day, drink 8. I’m serious, drinking water makes a huge difference in the moisture and health of your skin.
Use an Anti-Pollution Moisturizer
Not all moisturizers are created equal. In cities, you’re going to need extra help and you may find your skin becomes drier and less vibrant. I got a chance to try out Bioelements Remineralist Daily Moisture® which is specifically a pollution-neutralizing hydrator meant to combat city living. It uses red algae and minerals such as sea salt, copper, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc to defend the skin against pollution that causes lines, irritation and dehydration. Within 15 minutes of application it increases skin moisture up to 70%. Best of all, there are no artificial fragrances, colorants or animal testing.
Immediately upon using Remineralist Daily Moisture® I saw an increase in moisture and loved how lightweight and non-greasy it is. After a week of use, I saw increased clarity, more even skintone, and increased softness. My skin is also sensitive and this moisturizer went on like a dream, no irritation or breakouts. I love the lightweight, capped pump bottle, too. It can easily fit it in my purse and I don’t have to worry about it leaking or breaking.
Bottom line, your skin is going to need extra TLC in the city, so don’t skimp out and invest in a quality, pollution-combating moisturizer. Your skin will thank you! You can get Bioelements Remineralist Daily Moisture® here.
Get Regular Facials + Weekly Masks
Regular facials are so important for keeping your complexion healthy. Your skin is your body’s largest organ and it can collect a lot of toxins and debris. Doing regular facials will help purge impurities, slough off dead skin, and keep your complexion breakout-free. If you’re short on time (or cash) even doing your own at home masks can make a huge difference. Whatever you do, make sure you are purging your skin at least 1-2 times per week with professional facials or masks.
Steam it Out
Steam rooms are a godsend when it comes to purging your body of toxins. Hit the steam room 1-3 times per week to remove grime and pollution from your skin. Just be sure to drink plenty of water, as steaming can dehydrate you.
Leave Regularly
I always say, “you have to leave the city to love the city.” Even if it’s just for a day at the beach or a hike at a local mountain. Leave. The. City. You need to get away to breathe fresh air and get outdoors. Humans are biologically not made to be inside all the time, so just going out into nature has been scientifically proven to increase well-being. Healthy skin starts from the inside, so be sure you’re not only taking care of your skin with quality products, but that you’re nurturing your body and mental health.
Eat Extra Healthy
This is a no-brainer all the time, but you’re going to have to go extra in the city. I mean daily pressed green juice, plenty of omega rich proteins such as fish, plenty of veggies and whole grains, yogurt for probiotics, and reduction in caffeine, alcohol, and coffee consumption. It can be too easy to get stressed out and drink more coffee or want to blow off steam with the girls at happy hour a few times a week, but keep in mind, this will just stress your body more. The city can be alluring for doing the opposite of healthy living, but the irony is that living in an urban area actually means you have to work extra hard to look and stay healthy.
Anti-Stress Daily
City living=more stress. It’s just the way it goes. Yoga, meditation, prioritizing sleep, and deep breathing can really make the difference in not just the health of your complexion, but your entire body and mind. Find at least one way to destress everyday. Whether that’s a quick jog, a 10 minute meditation or a yoga session.
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