The environment affects everyone, regardless of skin color or age. There is a belief that darker skin is not affected as much by the environment as lighter skin; this is not true. What is true, is that it is easier to see the damage on lighter skin than on darker skin.

The Sun

Of all environmental conditions, the sun has the greatest damaging effect on your skin. Ozone damage is affecting not only the environment, but your skin as well. Skin cancer may be the most feared result from over exposure to the sun, but even your lovely tan is an indication that your skin has been damaged.      Over exposure to the sun also leads to premature aging.      Using a sunscreen is important for people of all skin tones to protect against skin damage. It is recommended that a sunscreen of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 15 or higher be used for the best protection. The more time you spend outdoors the greater the SPF needs to be.

Because the skin gets much of its moisture from the air, the cold, humid weather of winter tends to dry out the skin causing it crack and itch. Also, the ultraviolet rays from the sun, although not as intense as in summer are still harmful. Sunscreen and moisturizer with SPF 15 or more are still necessary.

Dust

Pimples, bumps or any other names you want to call blemishes on the skin are mostly a result of clogged pores, and the culprit is dust. You cannot avoid these pore clogging enemies altogether, but using the right skincare products combined with good skincare practices can help. Using a lotion with Vitamin E will help to alleviate itching and help maintain the overall health of your skin. It is believed that pollutants in the air strips away some of the natural Vitamin A in the skin.

Other pollutants from the environment also rob the skin of its health. These include carbon monoxide from car exhaust which depletes nutrients from the skin and leads to premature aging and cigarette smoke.

Protecting Your Skin

Keeping your skin nice and healthy despite the harmful effects of the environment depends on developing a good treatment regimen. As usual, start off with a good cleaning. Know your skin type (oily, dry, combination), the type of climate you live in and your age, then based on these factors choose the best cleanser for you. Make exfoliation, toning and moisturizing a part of your daily beauty regimen. Always finish off by making sure to protect your skin – sunscreen for daytime and night cream for bedtime to ensure that your skin is nourished while you sleep.

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