Ah, Diwali! The festival of lights, and let’s not forget, the festival of noisy neighbours who just can’t resist the urge to burn chakdis and phuljadis. Despite the ban on crackers, there’s always that one cheeky neighbor, isn’t there? Now, while they’re busy making your ears ring and polluting the air, they might also be unwittingly doing a number on your skin. After all, who wants to celebrate one of the most important festivals with unhealthy, dull skin when you’re dressed in your finest attire?
But fear not, this Diwali, we won’t let pollution rain on your parade. We’ve got some handy tips from Dr Chytra Anand, dermatologist and founder of SkinQ, to help you maintain that festive glow.
But before we dive into these skin-saving strategies, let’s break down how Diwali pollution can give your skin a hard time. Dr Anand highlighted that the particulate matter in the air can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and sometimes even flakiness.
“Pollutants generate free radicals which can damage the collagen in your skin. This can lead to early signs of ageing like fine line and wrinkles. Chemical residues from firecrackers can settle on the skin causing irritation, redness and even allergic reactions. Additionally, the increased dust in the air can clog pores, which can cause breakouts and acne.
So, how can you protect your skin during Diwali? Here are some essential steps to consider:
*Cleanse thoroughly: Make sure to cleanse your face thoroughly, especially after returning from outdoor activities. This will help remove settled pollutants from your skin.
*Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated, which naturally helps maintain skin moisture.
*Use antioxidant-rich products: Look for skincare products with ingredients like Vitamin C and E, which can counteract damage caused by free radicals, providing an additional layer of protection.
*Apply sunscreen: Even on cloudy or overcast days, the combination of UV rays and pollutants can harm your skin. Always apply sunscreen before heading outside.
*Exfoliate regularly: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as it can strip the skin of its natural oils.
*Moisturize: Use a quality moisturizer to combat dryness caused by pollution.
*Healthy diet: Consume foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, to combat internal damage caused by pollutants.
*Stay stress-free: We understand that Diwali can be a busy time but try to set aside some moments for relaxation. Stress can have a negative impact on your skin.
*Get adequate sleep: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep. It’s during sleep that your skin has the opportunity to repair and rejuvenate itself.