While working in an office has many benefits (hello actual IRL human colleagues) the daily commute to and from your place of work might be having a not-so positive effect on your skin. 

New research conducted by Westfield’s How We Shop platform has revealed that over 70% of us have concerns about the detrimental effects of air pollution on their skin and as cities grapple with increasing pollution levels, it’s no surprise that skin health is a growing concern. Over a third (38%) of Britons believe they have experienced skin issues due to air pollution with prevalent issues among Britons including dryness (54%), increased dirtiness (45%), blemishes (21%), and early signs of aging (20%).

From breakouts to dullness – we asked some of the UK’s top dermatologists and skin experts what effect commuting and public transport can have on our skin – plus the ways you can protect, prevent and manage any symptoms that come with it.  

“Returning to work and life back within a community has meant more exposure to pollution on a daily basis,” explains Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, founder and medical director of award-winning Adonia Medical Clinic.

“Daily pollution on the skin increases the risk of free radical damage. When left unchecked free radicals can increase redness and skin sensitivity, blemishes and even fine lines.” Been skipping your morning skincare routine? You’re not the only one. Dr Ejikeme says many of her patients now feel that they have less time in the morning – so haven’t been focused on the robust skincare regimes and daily hydration serums, like previously in lockdown. 

“To overcome free radical damage, try adding an antioxidant to your routine every morning. It’s also important to ensure you keep wearing sunscreen, even as we head to the autumn months.”

Cosmetic doctor and general practitioner Dr Rabia Milik thinks our daily commute is not only stressing out our skin – but causing it to appear dull too. “Commuting results in more exposure to environmental toxins and pollution which can lead to skin irritation and dullness in particular, which is something my patients have noticed more recently,”  she explains.

“To counteract this dullness, I encourage patients to cleanse daily and use a weekly exfoliator. I also advise they make sure to remove any make-up when they return home from work and before and after exercising, as this reduces product build up on the skin and allows the skin more time to breathe.”

What can you do to counteract those back-to-work breakouts and district line dullness? Keep scrolling for the skin expert-approved picks that help to clarify your complexion and protect against pesky free radical damage. 

Westfield is offering free consultations with leading skin expert, Dr. Ejikeme at its two London centres as part of its Beauty Edit Event to educate shoppers on the specific impacts air pollution has on their skin and giving tailored recommendations on products and routines to boost their skin health

Main image: Getty