How to protect your skin and hair from this toxic air pollution

The intense impact of the smoky-polluted soup we call 'air' is primarily the government's problem which is unable to control the environmental hazard of farmers burning their fields. Though, I am sympathetic with the plight of the poorer agricultural community, they too must realise that this ultimately backfires on us all, degenerating our health, and quality of soil and life for future generations. Ugh!

Self-help therapy to stay smog-free

To overcome the fall out of this tragic demise, the best form of self-help therapy is to wear a preventative breathing mask whenever you go out. The pollution seeps into every nook and cranny of the interiors also. Therefore, use a good air purifier in your home and office to ensure minimal damage to your precious lungs and skin. When you sleep, the body is in repose which adds on to the negative effects due to pollution. Hence, always sleep with the air purifier on at full throttle.



Exercise is important to keep the body fluids flowing and decongesting naturally. Avoid exercising outside as you may suffer from throat or lung infection that can saturate your tissue and suppress healthy cell renewal. Take plenty of vitamin C to boost your immune system which is a powerful antioxidant. The body does not store Vitamin C or antioxidants in general for long, and hence, they need to be consumed regularly. Drink plenty of cranberry and pomegranate juices along with regular intake of water to reduce the carbon footprint in your body.

Cleansing skin and hair from air pollution



The traditional steam bath and steam inhalation is a must to unclog blocked pores and draw out impurities from the soft tissue and lungs. This helps maintain a cleaner and more efficient lymphatic system too so that the detoxifying process is strengthened through purification benefiting our immunity. Steaming also helps to lift toxic particles from the skins surface preventing the build-up of debris that can cause allergic reactions such as rashes, redness and irritation.



Wear sunglasses outside to protect your eyes from dust particles as the thick smog can result in eyes irritation, and make them look red and blotchy. Hair is also a magnet for dust and grime. Using deep conditioners to protect your hair and washing it daily is helpful. Coconut oil is a life-giving substance for all our 'malas' (i.e. hair, skin and nails) and can be applied liberally after a steam or shower every day. Headaches and asthma are also provoked in this toxic environment. Therefore, these tips can help minimise the negative effects of this horrendous fall out.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com.