How pollution in Manchester is affecting your skin – and how to fix it

Polluted air contributes to the equivalent of 1,200 deaths a year in Greater Manchester. 

There are 152 stretches of road in Greater Manchester that exceed the legal limit for nitrogen dioxide. Not only is this bad news for our environment, but it’s having a detrimental effect on our health too.

The council has revealed plans to improve our air quality with a new clean air zone, but these won’t come into full effect until 2023.

Of course, we’re not alone. 92% of city-dwellers around the world are breathing in air that doesn’t comply with WHO standards.

The consequences of exposure to pollution can be huge. Minor effects range from skin dehydration to premature ageing and irritation. At its worst you can be looking at organ damage and even cancer in extreme cases. 

The good news? It is possible to protect ourselves against future damage and to repair at least some of that which has occurred already. And there are some really good products on the market to help.

So, for now, we’d all do well to protect our skin as best we can.

Beauty brands are cottoning on fast to the new demand and working hard to bring out new products to meet our needs.

One such brand is QMS who operate a spa bar at the luxury 5* hotel The Lowry.

Founder Dr Erich Schulte comes from a medical background, having first got into the beauty business whilst researching collagen’s wound-healing properties when working as a trauma surgeon.

Last year QMS launched a pollution-fighting duo skincare set comprised of a calming daily serum and an overnight foam mask which you can wear to bed. It’s had rave reviews from beauty fans online.

Using advanced formulas to defend our skin from the damaging effects of pollution, the serum provides protection for the wearer and assists in DNA repair beneath the surface whilst the overnight mask revitalises skin and increases its resistance to external and internal stressors.

They also offer a range of treatments at the spa for anyone looking for a deep cleaning treatment.

The QMS skin re-balance facial offers deep pore cleansing and detoxification of the skin – perfect for resetting as you start your new skincare journey.

And the 02 renew reboost treatment uses pure concentrated oxygen to stimulate the skin’s metabolism and skin cell renewal process.

Starting at £25, it’s an inexpensive way to get ahead of game and protect your skin from the effects of pollution.

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