Revealed: How pollution can add YEARS to your face - And the seven steps you need to beat it

• EXCLUSIVE: Air pollutants rob skin cells of oxygen and encourage free radicals
• How to pollution-proof skin
• Antioxidants are a vital part of your morning regime to protect skin all day
• Double cleansing in evening will prep skin for absorbing restorative products

You may be diligent about applying your anti-wrinkle creams and staying out of the sun, but your efforts could be in vain due to the ageing affects of pollution on the skin. 

And even if you don't live in a big city, indoor pollution from wood-burning stoves,  gas cookers and  cleaning products can be an equally damaging culprit. 

Now here are some How to combat the effects.

1. Use antioxidant products 

'Antioxidants are a vital component of modern skincare to help protect against ageing and tissue damage caused by pollution and environmental free radicals, Antioxidants protect the skin by binding with free radicals, preventing them from attaching to healthy skin cells in a process termed quenching. 

2. Beat inflammation  

 'This helps ensure the integrity of these cells, promoting healthier, more radiant-looking skin. 

To protect your skin, Facial oils containing antioxidants and vitamins to help subdue glycation and prevent free radical damage, recharging and revitalising skin at a cellular level.

3. Double cleanse 

'Double cleansing might be necessary, especially if wearing make-up.

'Thoroughly removing make-up along with daily grime is essential to keep skin clean, fresh and healthy. 

It also prepares the skin for maximum absorption of much-needed repair products such as night creams and oils.

4. Embrace the super cleanse 

You don’t need to do this every day, but now and then it’s nice to give skin a "super cleanse"

A super cleanse is best done at night, and involves double cleansing with a balm and then a cream.  

Follow with a rich moisturiser and an antioxidant facial oil, followed by a replenishing night cream 

 5. Use clay in your routine  

'A weekly exfoliation and mask treatment are good additions to your usual routine. 

'Look for a mask containing Kaolin clay, which is brilliant for dull, tired skin. 

'Kaolin deeply cleanses and purifies, thoroughly removing soot and other microscopic particles that can build up in the pores of the skin.'

6. Make time for facials - at home or in the salon

Of course, you might want to entrust the job of repairing your skin to a professional with a trip to the salon. 

'There are some really effective facial treatments for deep cleansing and helping to eliminate waste from the skin. A good facial can really boost the skin’s radiance,' 

'That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune at high-end salons - can do a great job at home too, if you’ve some good quality products and take an hour or so out for some personal pampering time.'

7. Swap to a cleansing oil 

Switching your heavy creamy cleanser for a light refreshing cleansing oil during the warmer months. 

This will gently but effectively dissolve daily dirt and make-up without stripping the skin of moisture which can leave it tight or dry, another red flag for the appearance of wrinkles.

Source - Daily Mail