IT IS MORE THAN our lungs that are at risk from the effects of pollution. Our skin is constantly exposed to external and indoor pollutants which, without help, can lead to premature ageing. The trend towards potions that combat the effects of pollution has led to new products popping up on beauty counters at an increasing rate, and they all have one thing in common: ingredients which have antioxidant qualities which are thought to neutralise free radicals.
Ozon, a skin-care brand from France, claims to be the first international beauty brand aimed at 'fighting the effects of pollution on the skin head-on'.
Its entire product range, which launched in Hong Kong this summer and is aimed at 'urban lifestyles', contains an anti-pollution active agent called Actitrionis.
The brand says the complex has a three-way, multiprotection action against different types of pollutants to help reinforce the skin's natural defence system, protecting cells from toxins. The active action of key ingredients boosts cells resulting in revived and rejuvenated skin.
Another French brand, Sampar, also made its Hong Kong debut this summer. Like Ozon, all of its products contain a specific complex - in Sampar's case these are natural extracts from shea butter, mint leaves and plant and lactate sugar - which the brand says strip toxins and pollutants which suffocate skin. Decleor, Dr Murad and philosophy each have their own versions of pollution-fighting products, among others.
So are all products just pandering to vanity or does pollution really pose a problem? Dermatologist Ho Lai-yung says that we should be concerned about the effects pollutants have on our skin.
