The Best Skincare Ingredients and Products to Shield Against Environmental Damage

3. Pick a Functional Powder for On-the-Go Sun Protection

Visible light can aggravate existing pigmentation problems, says Garshick, and you should have a product you can reapply indoors. Powders with built-in SPF are great because you can dust these on over existing makeup. They’re particularly useful if you work in an office and need a midday touch-up. Try Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50.

UV rays also “stimulate the melanin production that leads to skin discolorations,” Garshick says. Beyond aesthetics is the increased risk of skin cancer. The cumulative effect of sun exposure over time can lead to the formation of nonmelanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

4. Ramp Up on Red Algae to Guard Against Blue Light

If you don’t like tinted primers, another option is to look for a product with red algae, which is designed to protect against blue light, says Garshick. She likes Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen.

5. Go for Vitamins C and E in the Morning

“Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that are prematurely breaking down collagen and elastin,” says Garshick. Vitamin C often works better with the addition of vitamin E, according to research, so you’ll find them together in certain formulations, she says.

One product frequently recommended by dermatologists: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. Use this serum in the morning to prep skin with the defenses it needs during the day.

6. Opt for Antioxidants Like Glutathione and Resveratrol

Antioxidants have their place at night, too, as they can help repair damage done during the day, says Garshick. Look for resveratrol (which research has shown is a powerful antioxidant found in red grapes that neutralizes free radicals)

in SkinCeuticals Resveratrol B E. Garshick also recommends Good Science Beauty Skin Brightening Cream, as it’s packed with glutathione, another potent antioxidant that addresses dark spots to even tone, according to one study.

You can also get antioxidants through supplements like Heliocare, which derives its sun-damage-fighting effects from the research-backed Polypodium leucotomos extract.

However, it’s important to note that oral supplements are never a replacement for wearing sunscreen.

7. Wash Up Carefully Before Bed

“Exposure to air pollution, which includes particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, hydrocarbons, and ozone, creates oxidative damage in the skin that increases inflammation,” says Chwalek.

“It’s important to wash off the daily buildup of dirt and grime. That’s why a part of every good anti-aging routine is a gentle cleanser,” says Garshick. A mild wash like Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash cleans skin while keeping the skin barrier intact, lessening the chance of irritation.

8. Protect in the P.M.

Use products that help clear out the dust and debris that build up on the skin’s surface, says Garshick. She likes Good Science Beauty Purifying Face Cream, which targets toxins with oligopeptide-10, a plant-based antimicrobial peptide, per the product website. Another recommendation is Elizabeth Arden Prevage Hydrating Fluid, which contains idebenone, an antioxidant that clears up environmental damage.

The Takeaway

UV rays, blue light, and air pollution can all cause oxidative damage to the skin, compromising the skin barrier and aging it faster.
Take care to protect your skin while you’re both indoors and outdoors using a mineral-based sunscreen (including one on the go) and nourishing your skin with antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and resveratrol.
Cleanse your skin thoroughly before bed with a gentle cleanser to wash away buildup while keeping the skin barrier intact.

Additional reporting by Andria Park Huynh.