Essential Skin and Hair Care: Protecting Against Environmental Damage – News18
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Individuals can effectively protect and restore their natural radiance, ensuring long-term health and well-being by incorporating these expert-backed skincare and haircare tips
Experts weigh in on essential precautions and post-exposure remedies to maintain healthy skin and hair
Everyday exposure to environmental stressors such as pollution, harsh chemicals, and extreme weather conditions can take a toll on skin and hair. Without proper care, these factors can lead to dehydration, irritation, and long-term damage. Experts weigh in on essential precautions and post-exposure remedies to maintain healthy skin and hair.
Prevention is Key: Shielding Skin and Hair
Dr. Mahnaz Jahan Begum, Celebrity Cosmetologist and Founder, Keraderm Clinics, emphasizes the importance of preemptive skincare.
Hydrate and Protect: Apply a liberal amount of almond oil to nourish the skin and prevent dehydration caused by external elements.
Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Protect exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms, and legs from harmful UV rays and environmental pollutants.
Hair Care Matters: Use coconut oil to create a protective layer on the hair and keep it tied to reduce damage.
Barrier Protection for Lips and Nails: Applying petroleum jelly to lips and nails can prevent the absorption of harmful chemicals.
Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh soaps, as they can strip the skin of natural oils. Instead, opt for a mild pH-balanced body wash.
Dr. Megha Tandon, MBBS, MD Dermatology, advises additional protective measures:
Apply oil to your hair from the roots the night before exposure to create a natural shield against pollutants.
Moisturize the entire body or apply oil beforehand to minimize the absorption of harmful particles.
Wear sunglasses to protect the delicate eye area from irritants.
Post-Exposure Care: Rejuvenating Skin and Hair
If the skin and hair have been exposed to pollutants, chemicals, or excessive sun, a proper cleansing and hydration routine is crucial.
For Hair:
Stand under running water for 5 to 10 minutes to remove residue.
Use a sulfate-free or anti-dandruff shampoo to cleanse the scalp thoroughly.
Apply a deep conditioning mask to restore moisture and prevent breakage.
Avoid excessive scrubbing to prevent scalp irritation.
For Face & Body:
Use cotton dipped in olive oil to gently remove impurities.
Wash the face with a mild cleansing lotion, avoiding aggressive scrubbing.
Apply a soothing calamine lotion if irritation occurs.
Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer and sunscreen to maintain skin hydration and protection.
Natural Remedies for Skin Recovery
For those who prefer natural skincare, Dr. Megha Tandon recommends a homemade mask:
Mix fuller’s earth, rose water, sandalwood powder, and a pinch of turmeric.
Apply the mask cold, leave it on for 15 minutes, and rinse off gently.
Finish with a hydrating moisturizer.
When to Seek Professional Help
Persistent skin rashes, itching, hives, redness, or allergic reactions that do not subside should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Individuals with sensitive skin conditions like eczema should take extra precautions to prevent flare-ups. Additionally, excessive hair fall and scalp dryness after exposure to harmful elements may require medical intervention.
By incorporating these expert-backed skincare and haircare tips, individuals can effectively protect and restore their natural radiance, ensuring long-term health and well-being.
