
While invisible to the naked eye, fine dust particles can silently wreak havoc on your skin.
Fine dust in the air is no longer a new phenomenon in Vietnam, especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It has become a challenging issue for those with sensitive skin. Fine dust can cause skin irritation, hinder skin recovery, lead to acne breakouts, excess sebum production, skin discoloration, and accelerated aging. Therefore, it’s crucial to incorporate the following steps into your skincare routine to combat the adverse effects of fine dust.
Don’t rush to wash your face when you get home; wash your hands first.
We often rush to the bathroom to thoroughly cleanse our faces after a long day outdoors. But before doing anything else, remember to wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. Your hands have been in contact with numerous surfaces, such as phones, railings, and vehicles, which are covered in fine dust that the naked eye can’t see. If you touch your face, remove your makeup, or apply skincare products with these hands, you’re inadvertently inviting fine dust to penetrate deeper into your skin.
So, start by washing your hands with antibacterial soap, drying them with a clean towel, and then proceed with your skincare routine. This simple step can make a significant difference in protecting your skin.
A small action can make a big difference for your skin.
Double cleansing is good, but triple cleansing is better.
Typically, a double cleansing routine involves using a cleansing oil or balm followed by a water-based cleanser. However, with the increasing presence of fine dust in the air, consider adopting a triple cleansing routine.
Depending on your skin type, you can modify the steps. Start by massaging your face with a cleansing oil in circular motions to draw out deep-seated impurities and fine dust from your pores. Then, rinse and follow up with a water-based cleanser. If your skin still feels greasy, don’t hesitate to add a third step by using a gentle, low-pH, sulfate-free foaming cleanser.
While it may seem like a lot, this three-step cleansing routine can be a lifesaver for your skin when fine dust levels are high.
VIDEO: Proper triple cleansing routine shared by TikToker Michelle Chu
Instantly soothe and hydrate your skin with a calming toner.
After thoroughly cleansing your skin, it tends to feel drier due to the loss of water and natural oils. This is where a hydrating and calming toner comes to the rescue.
Opt for a toner free of alcohol and artificial fragrances. Look for soothing ingredients such as chamomile, centella asiatica, or witch hazel. Apply the toner with your hands or a cotton pad, gently patting it into your skin in layers—about 2-3 layers—to enhance absorption and provide a soothing sensation.
If your skin still feels dry, don’t hesitate to apply an additional layer or two. Your skin will feel softer, calmer, and ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.
Prioritize skincare ingredients that repair and strengthen your skin barrier.
When your skin is affected by fine dust, it’s crucial to incorporate specific ingredients that help repair and reinforce your skin’s protective barrier. According to Korean skincare experts, there are three key ingredients to look for: panthenol, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, is renowned for its soothing and restorative properties, especially after skin irritation. When combined with hyaluronic acid, the hydration level of the skin is maximized, leaving it plump and supple. Additionally, ceramides work to fortify the skin’s natural protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and shielding the skin from the detrimental effects of pollution.
Opt for a moisturizer that contains all three of these ingredients to effectively hydrate, repair, and seal in moisture for your skin.
Sunscreen does more than protect against the sun; it also shields against pollution.
It may sound unusual, but it’s true: a suitable sunscreen not only blocks UV rays but also acts as a barrier against fine dust. On days when fine dust levels are particularly high, opt for a physical sunscreen containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide, as these ingredients are effective in blocking both UV rays and fine dust particles.
These ingredients create a protective layer on the skin, reflecting UV rays and minimizing the adhesion of fine dust particles.
Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours if you’re spending extended periods outdoors to ensure continuous protection against both UV rays and fine dust.
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