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Pollution:we rely on antioxidant treatments to protect the skin

Polluting particles (outside and at home) attach themselves to the skin and exhaust its natural defenses against the production of free radicals, asphyxiate the cells and slow down blood micro-circulation. It is even worse in the presence of UV:the epidermis is duller, marks more and can develop brown spots.

How to protect the skin?

It is essential to apply daily a treatment containing antioxidant active ingredients to help the skin defend itself. Our favourites:urban shields. Armored with active ingredients, they are formulated with anti-adhesion molecules (which prevent polluting particles from "sticking" to the skin), agents which reinforce the skin barrier and high UVA protection. The novelty ? These bases, applied after day care and before make-up, are effective all day long (UV filters in particular degrade less quickly than when they are in direct contact with UV rays). Good too, new generation night care, which recharges the skin with antioxidants while you sleep.

5 treatments tested and approved

Antioxidant Night Detox Cream, Estée Lauder, €65. Essential UV Multi-Protection Daily Care SPF 50, Chanel, €53. Maestro UV SPF 50 PA++, Giorgio Armani, €73.90. One Essential City Defense SPF 50 PA++++, Dior, €53. Superdefense Night, Clinique, €58.

Thanks to Marie-Hélène Lair, Director of Scientific Communication at Clarins and to Gabrielle Sore, Scientific Director of L’Oréal Research (SkinCeuticals).