The best anti-pollution skincare products

From a poor diet to lack of sleep, there are several things that are bad for your skin. For Londoners, the biggest threat to a healthy complexion is pollution.

If you aren’t addressing this issue correctly, then your skin could be at risk of clogged pores, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing. It's no surprise, then, that one of the top beauty trends as of late is for anti-pollution skincare products.

Brands such as REN and Murad are helping city dwellers tackle the environmental problem with a range of grime-busting formulas, which are designed to both fight and protect the skin from free-radical damage.

Here are our top picks to keep you glowing.

1. Ren Skincare Flash Defense Anti-Pollution Mist

A blend of amino acids, zinc and Sophora Japonica Flowers, this fine mist acts as an invisible shield against daily aggressions. Calming and refreshing, it comes in the perfect size for keeping in your handbag for an on-the-go spritz after a long and polluted commute. It can also be worn over makeup to set your look.

£24, Net a Porter, Buy it now

2. Sanctuary Spa 5 Minute Thermal Detox Mask

For a proper deep cleanse, a facial mask is a must-have for your skincare regime. Self-heating and infused with charcoal, this budget beauty warrior is just the ticket for drawing out impurities and works its magic in just 5 minutes. A purifying product that will save you time and won’t break the bank? Sounds good to us.

£10, Boots, Buy it now

3. This Works Light Time Open Eyes

The only product you need to de-puff your peepers. It glides on like velvet and is enriched with potent natural ingredients, including algae and soothing aloe vera. Using the cooling metal applicator, apply once daily to detoxify and brighten the under-eye area, while protecting against premature wrinkles and fine lines.

£25, John Lewis, Buy it now

4. Murad Essential-C Day Moisture SPF30

A hardworking helper for your complexion, this vitamin C-rich formula will both protect and repair the skin from free-radical damage. If that’s not enough, its high levels of SPF aid in preventing dark spots and help improve the appearance of wrinkles. Apply evenly across the face and neck after cleansing and toning.

£60, Feel Unique, Buy it now

5. Lancôme City Miracle CC Cream SPF50

This ‘miracle’ CC cream has been tested on women from some of the world’s highly polluted cities, including London and New York. It provides buildable coverage and long-lasting hydration, while its high SPF value defends the skin from environmental stress. Ideal for a barely-there makeup look.

£31.50, Feel Unique, Buy it now

6. Origins Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Bright Dark spot correcting serum

This potent serum penetrates deep into the skin to treat hyperpigmentation caused by pollution. Loaded with brightening ingredients such as grapefruit, orange and rosa roxburghii, it’s designed to visibly reduce dark spots and even out the skintone. The formula is complete with dictyoperis algae, which blocks melanin transfer.

£45, Boots, Buy it now

7. Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream

Specially formed for those who live in polluted urban environments, a comforting cleanser containing sumptuous moringa, mango and shea butter. It has a rich yet thin texture that works to gently lift dirt and makeup from skin, while protecting from clogged pores and signs of ageing. The ultimate skin detox for dry and sensitive skin.

£25, Feel Unique, Buy it now

8. Caudalie Vine (Activ) Overnight Detox Oil

As you walk around the city, free radicals collect on the face which causes cells to break down and your skin to age. Caudalie’s Detox Oil will help to prevent this by detoxifying them and rejuvenating the complexion. The completely natural formula is made from lavender, neroli, carrot and white sandalwood oils, helping to boost radiance and eliminate signs of fatigue. Light to the touch, you won’t be left with an oily sheen either.

£28.50, Escentual, Buy it now

Follow us on Twitter @ESLifeandStyle and on Facebook