When it comes to your skin’s health, just about anything can put it in danger. Not only do the sun’s UV rays pose a threat to your complexion, but the other elements as well. These hazardous elements are known as environmental pollutants. Once you are aware of what’s out there, you can take the proper measures to protect your skin.

Wind

Wind doesn’t just mess up your hairstyle and blow your things around, it can also be damaging on the skin and is considered an environmental pollutant. Complexion-wise, excessive exposure to wind can cause the skin to dry out and become parched or dehydrated. One common condition that many people suffer from is windburn. Even though it is called a burn, windburn is actually a type of skin irritation. This condition is caused when exposure to harsh wind removes the skin’s top layer, which contains essential oils. Without the proper oil to keep the skin cells hydrated, the surface of the skin becomes red, raw, and very dry.

Windburn often happens during the fall and winter seasons but it is possible to get windburn anytime of the year if you live in a climate that is windy. The best way to treat windburn is to moisturize the affected area. Over-the-counter moisturizers with an aloe base typically are all that is needed for treatment. The signs of windburn may take a few days to a week to go away. If you plan to be around a windy area, be sure to wear plenty of lip balm on both your lips as well as the upper lip area, as this is the most common part of the face to suffer from windburn. Sunscreen also helps to prevent this painful skin condition.

Cold

Cold winter weather is an environmental pollutant all by itself because of the effects it can have on the skin. Even if it isn’t snowing, cold temperatures alone can wreak havoc on all skin types. The most common signs of damage due to the cold as an environmental pollutant include excessive dryness, cracked and blistered skin, waterlogged skin (an uncomfortable condition that causes the skin to swell, feel tight, and itchy), and peeling. To protect your complexion and the rest of your body from this environmental pollutant, wear warm, comfortable clothing, and make sure to provide your skin with plenty of moisture. Lotion up more than you normally would and also use plenty of sun care products, even in the winter.

Central Heating & Air

While it isn’t technically a natural element found in the environment, your home or office’s heater and air conditioning unit also falls under the category of environmental pollutants. You may not notice it, but your skin’s negative reaction could be due to these appliances. Although the heat or air conditioning may feel great when combating the weather, exposing your skin to these elements often can cause your skin to become dehydrated and chaffed. If you’re at home, purchase a humidifier, which will help maintain a good amount of moisture in the air so your skin doesn’t become overwhelmed and dry. If you’re at the office, avoid working directly under or near the building’s fan so you aren’t directly exposed over your 8-hour day. Carrying lotion and other types of moisturizers and applying them throughout the day will also protect your skin against this environmental pollutant.

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