City air carries dust, tiny pollutant particles and sometimes smoke, all of which can settle on exposed skin. Over time, these can contribute to dullness, clogged pores and irritation. You can’t control outdoor air quality fully, but you can control how long it sits on your face.
One of the simplest protections is consistent cleansing. Washing your face in the evening with a gentle cleanser removes not just makeup and sweat but also the day’s pollution. If you wear sunscreen and makeup, a two-step cleanse (oil-based product followed by a mild face wash) can help lift everything off cleanly.
Using antioxidant-rich products, like serums with vitamin C (if your skin tolerates them), may support the skin’s defence against pollution-related stress. But they’re additions, not a replacement for basic cleansing.
Covering more of your skin physically – hats, scarves, or simply avoiding busy roads when walking – can also cut direct exposure.
You don’t need elaborate “anti-pollution” marketing products. Regular washing, sunscreen and a simple, consistent routine go a long way.