How To Protect Your Skin In This Sydney Smoke, Since It Doesn’t Seem To Be Pissing Off

The Sydney smoke is likely here to stay all summer, according to the Bureau Of Meteorology. That means working out how to cope with it.

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For some, it means dealing with respiratory conditions that flare up with the bad air quality. For others like me, it’s about diminishing the effect on my skin. I get dermatitis and it’s flared up like a mofo, so I’ve been working out how to protect my skin barrier from damage.

But that info doesn’t just apply to dermatitis – it can help all of us, whether your skin reacts with breakouts, dryness or just plain feeling fucking gross. I asked MECCA’s Retail Skincare Manager Lucy Shaw what her advice is for dealing with the Sydney smoke.

1. Up Your Cleansing Routine

The first step you should consider is adding a double-cleanse to your nightly routine. I do this daily anyway because I wear makeup, and frankly it’s 100% easier to remove the makeup with a cleansing oil or balm first, then clean my face with cleanser than it is to do one single cleanse and realise there’s panda eyes and residual makeup going on.

“An oil or balm can get inside the pore (where the particles collect) and then your second cleanse will ensure the surface of your skin is super clean. My picks are: first cleanse; REN No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm and second cleanse; AmorePacific Cleansing Foam.”

I’ll add to this and say I love, for a cheapie, humble coconut oil as a first cleanse. It’s not for everyone – some say they find it exacerbates their acne. So see how you go or do a bit of research into your skin type first.

2. Use An Anti-Pollution Product

Smoke is air pollution, and if you aren’t adequately protecting your skin from it you’re letting those damaging particles settle into pores and cause harm. Think premature ageing, breakouts, the works.

“Create a protective shield on the skin that will help to capture any pollution or smoke particles. Verso Anti-Pollution Mist can be applied after your skincare or after your makeup and in my opinion, best to do both! This genius product has a metal binding polymer that acts like a net, covering the skin and capturing pollution before it has a chance to settle in our pores.”

A few others I like – Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops, which are pricey but a little goes a SUPER long way and they’re comfortable even on my easily-irritated skin.

3. Add Anti-Oxidants

One of the killers when it comes to air pollution are free radicals, which cause a myriad of skin problems. You can combat them with anti-oxidants, found in vitamin C, niacinamide, CoQ10, reservatrol, vitamin E and other ingredients.

“Lastly, antioxidants are important for every day, but especially in extreme conditions where the skin is even more vulnerable to oxidative stress caused by free radicals and pollution. An antioxidant rich moisturiser (my pick is Sunday Riley CEO Cream) will help your skin to better defend itself.”

You can also incorportate a powerful antioxidant serum or oil into your skincare routine. I love The Ordinary’s Vitamin C Suspension 23% – it’s under 10 bucks and super powerful.

Another good one is Trilogy’s Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+, especially if you have dry skin.

At the end of the day it comes down to your morning routine and your evening – adding some protective power with serums and creams, then making sure you remove all the pollutants that have made it onto your face in the evening.

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