Bryan Johnson, the US tech millionaire and fitness enthusiast, is popular for his dedication to staying young forever. The anti-ageing influencer is back in the news, in a tweet he spoke about his recent trip to India and how the air pollution affected his skin.?
Sharing his experience, Johnson said due to air pollution he experienced skin rash, eye, and throat burnout. The impact was so much so that he had to 'end Nikhil Kamath's podcast early' in between.?
The biohacker follows a strict regime of exercise, diet, and sleep. Apart from this, he also spends over $2 million each year on his health and wellness programs.
The 47-year-old anti-ageing influencer recorded an episode for Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath's podcast called 'WTF' at a five-star hotel with an air purifier in it. Johnson wore an N95 mask, even though he left the interview in between as he was unable to tolerate the room's air quality, which had an AQI of around 120.
Johnson confirmed the incident on X (formerly called Twitter), "When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality."
The incident throws a spotlight on the link between air pollution and its effect on skin. ¡°It is scary to know that pollution not only takes a toll on the lungs but even the skin too. Pollution is known to impact your skin, leading to various issues like premature ageing, dryness, acne, wrinkles, and dullness,¡± says Dr. Shareefa Chause, dermatologist, Dr. Shareefa Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai.
Airborne pollutants such as dust, smoke, and harmful chemicals tend to release free radicals that damage skin cells, breaking down collagen and leading to skin issues such as wrinkles and fine lines. Dr. Chause points out, ¡°Moreover, constant exposure to pollution can impact the skin's natural barrier, making it more prone to irritation, redness, and dehydration. The skin will look dull and unhealthy.
Further explaining this detail, Dr. Chause said, ¡°Unfortunately, pollution particles can clog pores, making one prone to acne and breakouts, especially in urban areas with high levels of smog and toxins. Additionally, pollutants can cause dull and dry skin, which may result in hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.¡±
Given the perturbing rise of pollution rates, your skin is in virtually constant exposure to these harmful toxins that may cause dullness, early wrinkles, and sometimes breakouts, shares Dr. Shrey Srivastava, Senior Consultant¡ªInternal Medicine, Sharda Hospital.
To protect the skin, avoid venturing out when the air quality is poor, or cover your face while going out, apply sunscreen daily, cleanse the skin, use products recommended by the doctor, stay hydrated, and ensure regular exfoliation. This can also help combat the damaging effects of pollution and keep the skin soft, supple, and shinier.
Double Cleansing: Utilise an oil-based cleanser, followed by a gentle face wash, to effectively remove pollutants, dirt, and excess oil.
Antioxidant Protection: Cover it with vitamin C or vitamin E serum to combat free radicals and halt oxidative damage.
Barrier-Boosting Moisturiser: Ceramide-infused moisturiser will help to enhance the skin's natural defence.
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable: The pollution worsens the damage done under UV rays. Use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of at least 50 on a daily basis.
Hydrate from Within: Ensure that you're drinking tonnes of water and eating lots of antioxidant-filled foods like berries, nuts, and greens.
Weekly Detox: Draw out toxins and brighten your skin with clay masks or activated charcoal treatments.
Avoid Harsh Products: Stay away from toners with alcohol, and exfoliate only two to three times per week to avoid drying up your skin.
Indoor Air Care¡ªInstall air purifiers: If possible, houseplants such as aloe vera to minimise indoor pollutants affecting your skin.
A holistic process of skincare, nutrition, and lifestyle changes should be combined to ensure that you keep your complexion clear and radiant, despite rising pollution levels.
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