Do you suffer with city skin?
Written by Holistic Health Coach, Lisa Horgan
What is city skin, and do you have it?
Well, the short answer is yes.
If you live in a city such as New York or LA, you're undoubtedly facing environmental aggressors like pollution, along with UV rays, extreme temperatures, and even stress. Your skin is very much affected by the environment.
Those who live in the city also tend to have a lifestyle that's not so skin-friendly either. Whilst your social life may be rocking, your skin may not. Late-night bars, fast food and cigarette smoke all contribute towards a build up on the skin.
I certainly notice a difference in my skin when I’ve spent time outside the city- especially near the coast, it's almost like my skin can breathe again.
So does this mean you have to hightail it out to the coast to hang onto your youthful glow? Not exactly, here are some things you can do to help combat the effects.
1. Cultivate a proper deep cleansing routine
The build-up of oil, residue and cosmetics left on your skin can leave it looking dull in appearance, it can also contribute towards blocking your pores and lead to breakouts.
I recommend the double cleanse method. Originating from Korea, the double cleanse method is a 2 step process. It begins with using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, sebum, and grime accumulated throughout the day, followed by a water-based cleanser that tackles sweat and dirt.
Be mindful of what you use—many cleansers use chemicals to eliminate dirt, but those chemicals can be too harsh and dehydrate the skin. The ideal cleanser should be sulfate-free so as not to irritate the skin. Also, as over-cleansing can lead to dryness and sensitive skin, I recommend the double cleanse in the evening only.
Complete your routine with this heavenly Organic facial oil containing the anti-inflammatory superstar turmeric, plus the time-tested revitalizers of frankincense, sandalwood, and helichrysum round out this formula. It’s like a rainbow of protective botanicals for your face.
2. Only use natural products
As I mentioned in my first point, many products contain chemicals. Those chemicals can be too harsh and negatively impact the skin.
Only use natural products that are high in antioxidants and that contain no nasties (there's enough of those in the air already!)
Our Organic corrective cream, for example, contains nutrient-dense, all-natural ingredients that actually help to FEED your skin rather than deplete it.
Antioxidants in your skincare can act as a shield against environmental aggressors. All of our Beefriendly products contain powerful antioxidants that help to protect your skin.
3. Stay hydrated
I know we always reiterate this one but that's because it's so important and so simple.
Nothing else is quite as effective when it comes to taking care of your skin. It also helps to keep your digestive system moving and as a result, expel toxins from the body.
4. Take a break outside the city
Try to live more in alignment with nature - meaning, spend more time in it.
As often as possible. Depending on which city you live in, head out, the coast, the forest, the countryside, the mountains, wherever it is, escape the hustle and bustle. Breathe in the fresh air away from roads or buildings. Go on a hike, hug a tree, give your skin a breather!
It helps to take a holistic view when it comes to your skin, don’t try and treat it in isolation. Your skin is your biggest organ and is connected to everything else. Your mood/stress levels, cleansing routine, environment and diet, all play an important part.
A little TLC goes a long way so, cultivate a better cleansing routine & spring clean your products. Go through what you have and bin anything that contains ingredients you don’t understand. We're part of nature so using natural skincare just makes sense. Remember to hydrate and take a break in nature.
Take good care of yourself as a whole, mind, body, spirit, and your skin will become a reflection of that.
We hope you enjoyed this article, do let us know what you
do to combat city skin!
Tag us on social media when you’re out in nature or if you try a new cleansing routine,
let us know using the hashtag #beepassionate
Lisa Horgan
Lisa is a contributing writer for Bee-friendly. A certified holistic health coach, blogger & yoga teacher for 10 years. Passionate about health and wellness, natural remedies and plant-based nutrition. You can find her on Instagram @livesimplylisa