Pollution may be unavoidable, but its damage doesn’t have to be permanent. By dedicating a few extra minutes to your nighttime routine, you can protect your skin and help it repair and rejuvenate. Consistency, combined with the right ingredients, is your secret weapon against pollution. Mansi Sharma, Founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess Beauty, shares the best nighttime skincare routine to reverse pollution damage.
Pollutants, makeup, and SPF can clog your pores and prevent your skin from breathing. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve grime and impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to remove residue.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and pollution particles that have settled on your skin. Use a chemical exfoliant with AHAs or BHAs 2–3 times weekly to promote cell renewal and a brighter complexion.
After cleansing, balance your skin's pH and replenish hydration with a soothing toner or essence. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and rose water can calm inflammation caused by pollution
Pollution generates free radicals that harm skin cells. An antioxidant serum with vitamin C, resveratrol, or ferulic acid can neutralize these radicals and repair damage.
Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient that stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover, helping to repair pollution-induced damage. Alternatively, peptides can strengthen the skin barrier and improve elasticity.
Pollution weakens the skin barrier, making it essential to seal in hydration with a rich, nourishing moisturizer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, or shea butter to protect your skin overnight.