Diwali Smog & Skin Care: How To Fight Pollution With A Scrub & De-Tan

Although Diwali is a time to shine! There will be a significant deterioration in air quality after the festivities. Fireworks, car fumes, stagnant winter air and the burning of crop waste will all contribute to creating a layer of thick toxic smog.

Although we can all easily don a mask to protect our lungs, our skin is our first line of defence and will be subjected to the nastiest of toxins. Knowing how to detox and protect your skin once the smog hits will help avoid any long term damage to your skin in India.

How Does Diwali Smog Damage Skin?

Smog contains a variety of microscopic pollutants including fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), PAHs, heavy metals and nitrogen dioxide.

As PM2.5 are around 20 times smaller than our pores, they are able to cause damage deeper within the epidermis. This causes:

Oxidative stress: Pollutants cause healthy skin cells to lose electrons. This creates free radicals which break down collagen and elastin.

Weakened skin barrier: Pollutants cause oxidation to occur to the top layer of skin cells (lipids). This causes trans-epidermal water loss.

Hyper pigmentation: Particulate matter can get stuck causing micro-inflammation. This sends a signal to melanocytes telling them to produce excess melanin. This can cause dark patches and make skin look grey.

Common Symptoms Of Damaged Skin Due To Pollution

During high smog periods you may experience:

• Texture issues: Micro particles build up in pores and cause a gritty texture on skin.
• Irritation: Skin barrier is affected causing the skin to feel tight, sore and red.
• Dullness: Oxidation occurs and a build-up of dead skin cells causing skin to look dull and grey.
• Breakouts: Heavy metals, sweat and soot build up causing small red bumps to form.

The Key To Clearing Smog: Exfoliate & Detox

To thoroughly remove smog, you will need to exfoliate to remove the build-up of toxic pollutants. Not just a simple cleanser.

1. Rare Chemistry Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub

PM2.5 and soot can cause a build-up of pollutants and a slick feeling on skin. Our product uses gentle micro spheres to loosen pollution and remove dead skin.

This product is gentle and won’t cause any irritation to sensitive, inflamed skin. It will help reduce texture and clear any blocked pores.

2. Rare Chemistry Radiance Boost De-Tan Face Mask

Smog causes your skin to become grey due to oxidation and micro-inflammation. Our product helps with an intense detox.

This will help remove any deep-seated impurities, whilst reducing any redness from pollution and brightening any surface discolouration.

Evening Routine To Help Skin Recover From Smog

Your skin will go into recovery mode at night. This should be done 1-2 times per week when experiencing high levels of pollution.

Gentle Cleanser: Remove any surface dirt and makeup using a gentle, soap free cleanser.

Gentle Exfoliator: Warm some of our product and massage onto damp skin for 30-60 seconds. Be sure to focus on problem areas (t-zone and cheeks) and rinse thoroughly using warm water.

Detox & De-Tan: Apply a thin layer of our product. Leave on for 10-15 minutes so the plant-based ingredients can help remove any last bits of impurity and reduce micro-inflammation. Rinse gently.

Hydrating: Finish with a hydrating night cream containing lipids and antioxidants to help neutralise any free radicals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I exfoliate my skin if it feels irritated from the pollution?

Yes! However you should only use a product suitable for sensitive skins. Our product contains rounded particles which will help lift the pollutants from your skin. Avoid using a coarse natural shell scrub. This can cause micro tears.

2. How does the De-Tan help with air pollution?

Smog causes fast oxidation to the surface of skin. This can cause skin to look grey, tanned and patchy. Using our specialist de-tan product, will help gently remove the top layer of skin which has become dull and oxidised. It will also reduce any excess melanin production caused by micro-inflammation.

3. How often should I use these products after Diwali?

Use our Gentle Exfoliating Face Scrub and Radiance Boost De-Tan Face Mask 1-2 times per week. However be careful not to over-exfoliate as this can weaken your skin barrier.

Maintain Skin Chemistry

Whilst smog is an unavoidable part of life after the festivities, there is no reason to cause any long term damage to your skin. By using a gentle physical exfoliator and targeted detox mask will help protect your lipid barrier and keep your skin glowing throughout winter.

Discover specialist dermatologist formulated skincare routines for South Asian skin.

About the Author: Dr. Neeta Kapadia

Dr. Neeta Kapadia is a practising ophthalmologist and surgeon and co-founder of Rare Chemistry. She brings a medical, science-first approach to skincare, writing about ingredients, skin health and safe routines for Indian skin.