Dermatologist shares anti-pollution skincare routine to protect your skin from smog, screens and stress

Skincare today means protection. With rising pollution and screen time, anti-pollution routines are a must to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

In today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle, skincare is no longer just about hydration or anti-ageing. It’s about protection. With rising pollution levels and hours spent in front of digital screens, more people are looking for ways to defend their skin from modern environmental stressors.

An anti-pollution routine with antioxidants, hydration, and expert treatments is essential for healthy skin.(Freepik)

Blue light from devices like laptops and smartphones can contribute to skin ageing, pigmentation, and dullness. Meanwhile, pollution, especially in cities, clogs pores, triggers inflammation and weakens the skin barrier. It’s no surprise that in 2025, anti-pollution skincare is gaining ground as a must-have routine, not a luxury.

Dr Lakshmi Sowjanya Chekuri, MD, Founder and Chief Dermatologist, AVNI Dermatology and Aesthetics, Hyderabad, shared with HT Lifestyle tips for a perfect anti-pollution skincare routine.

1. Use the right cleanser

Wash your face with a gentle, antioxidant-rich cleanser in the morning and before bed. This helps remove dirt, pollution, and prevents buildup. Avoid strong soaps that dry out your skin.

A comprehensive anti-pollution skincare routine is essential for maintaining skin health. (Shutterstock)

2. Choose a good moisturiser

Pick a moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin E. These ingredients keep your skin soft, hydrated, and protect it from outside irritants.

3. Protect against screen light

Use a serum with antioxidants to fight damage from phone and computer screens. And always wear sunscreen, even when you are indoors.

4. Professional support

Non-invasive treatments are becoming a go-to for deeper protection and repair.

Non-invasive treatments have zero downtime. (Shutterstock)

5. Maintain a skin-friendly lifestyle

Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich foods (like berries and green tea), and keep your skin barrier strong with regular sleep and minimal stress.

As we spend more time in hybrid work setups, shifting from office screens to outdoor errands, our skin needs more than just a basic routine. An anti-pollution skincare plan that includes at-home care and expert-backed treatments can help your skin stay fresh, balanced, and future-ready.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.