One of the hottest topics in the beauty industry these days is around how pollution negatively effects the skin. Research shows that minute pollution particles absorbed by the skin are tied to the formation of age spots, pigmentation and wrinkles. in fact, a recent study published in the journal of Investigative Dermatology proves that traffic-related air pollution accelerates the skin’s aging process.
“With traffic pollution emerging as the single most toxic substance for skin, the dream of perfect skin is over for those living and working in traffic-polluted areas, unless they take steps to protect their skin right now.” Dr Mervyn Patterson – Cosmetic Doctor
Scary stuff, I know. However, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, and it comes in the form of topical antioxidants. Antioxidants have the ability to mop up free radicals (those nasty unstable molecules in the air, caused by pollution) and stop them from doing damage. To help prevent pollution from taking a toll on your skin, you need to strengthen it by using products packed with antioxidant ingredients.
Giving your skin a detox is also a good idea. Personally, I find those week long juice detoxes that claim to (and often do) leave you with glowing skin, a flat tummy and hunger pains reminiscent of labour (ok, maybe I embellishing a tad) way too extreme. Give me a beauty product that pampers and detoxes, and I’m a happy women.
So readers, meet my newest skincare crush, the PREVAGE City Smart Double Action Detox Peel Off Mask (R850). I don’t know about you, but treating my skin to a mask is one of my favourite beauty pass times that I indulge in at least twice a week.
This peel off mask acts like a liquid magnet to lift and remove impurities, while resurfacing the skin and enhancing its natural detoxification system. It removes accumulated surface toxins, peeling away dirt, oil and pollutants from the skin with its gentle exfoliation action.
The formula contains Idebenone – one of the most powerful antioxidants. Idebenone was originally used in kidney transplants to prevent oxidation for those few minutes the kidneys were outside the body, prior to transplant. So we’re taking top grade, highly effective stuff here. Thiotaine, a mix of blueberries, goji berries and cranberries has been added to help fight those skin-damaging free radicals. There’s a Smart Polymer Blend that resurfaces the skin, lifting away dirt, oil and impurities to brighten the complexion, and a Tree Mushroom Extract that reduces pore size. To help detoxify the skin, a blend of bioflavonoids made up of broccoli and aloe extract has been included.
It’s recommended using this peel-off mask twice a week. You simply apply a generous layer of the gel formula to cleansed skin, avoiding the hairline and eyebrows. Leave on for 20 minutes until the completely dry, then gently peel it off, starting from the edges.
I love how radiant and glowy my complexion looks after using this mask. Also, and I won’t lie – I just adore the totally satisfying peel off action – and I’m sure you will too.
Last, but not least, here’s a recipe for my quick and easy detox juice that does wonders for the skin.
Ingredients: 1 green apple, 2 medium carrots, juice of one small lime or lemon
Carrots contain huge amounts of Vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene – a powerful antioxidant that prevents cell degeneration, helping to slow ageing. Carrots also contain Vitamin C – essential for collagen production.
Apples are great for preventing cell and tissue damage, wrinkles and ageing.
Lemons and limes have high amounts of Vitamin C, which is essential for detoxing, thus keeping the skin clear and beautiful.
Method: Wash and cut apple and carrots. Place in juicer. Juice lime or lemon and add to mixture.
GIVEAWAY
I have one tube of the PREVAGE City Smart Double Action Detox Peel Off Mask valued at R850 up for grabs. To stand a chance of winning it, leave a comment in the comment section below this post naming one of the ingredients contained in the formula.
Please ensure you include your email address (only we can see it), so we can contact you, should you be the winner. The name of the winner will be announce nest week Thursday 10 August on In My Bag blog’s Facebook page (FOLLOW HERE)
