Firecracker smoke and rising pollution levels can leave the skin irritated, dry and vulnerable to damage. Skincare expert explains what pollution does to the skin barrier, whether anti-pollution products work and how to adapt your routine during high-AQI days
As Diwali celebrations get underway, air pollution becomes a concern for more than just respiratory health. Exposure to firecracker smoke, dust, and fine particulate matter can also affect the skin, causing irritation, dryness, and inflammation. With air quality deteriorating across several Indian cities during the festive period, skincare routines may need some attention too.
The beauty industry has responded with products marketed as pollution shields, antioxidant serums and protective creams. Double cleansing and barrier-repair routines have also become popular recommendations. But how much of this advice is backed by evidence, and what should people actually prioritise when air quality drops?
We spoke to skincare expert Nipun Kapur Sohal about the effects of pollution on the skin, common anti-pollution skincare myths and the steps people can take during the Diwali smog season.
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How does air pollution affect your skin?
Fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, is one of the major pollutants people are exposed to during periods of poor air quality. These particles measure 2.5 microns or less in diameter and can interact with the skin's outermost protective layer.
According to Sohal, pollution exposure can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, affecting the skin barrier and its ability to retain moisture.
"The effect of this PM infiltration is seen as an inflammatory reaction that actively destroys your natural collagen and elastin," she explains.
Some visible effects may include acne breakouts, redness, dark spots, dryness and premature signs of ageing. People with sensitive skin or existing inflammatory skin conditions may also notice increased irritation during periods of poor air quality.
Indoor air quality also deserves attention. Pollutants can enter homes through open windows and doors, while smoke and other indoor sources can add to exposure. Spending time indoors does not mean the skin is protected from pollution.
Do anti-pollution skincare products actually work?
The growing market for anti-pollution skincare has made it difficult for consumers to distinguish useful formulations from marketing claims. Sohal advises looking at the ingredients and the function of a product rather than relying on labels.
She recommends antioxidant ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide and green tea extract, which can help address oxidative stress. Moisturisers containing ceramides, squalane, hyaluronic acid and glycerin can support the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.
Sunscreen is another important part of the routine. Sohal recommends broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on hazy days. She also prefers mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which form a protective layer on the skin.
However, claims that mineral sunscreens are categorically more effective than chemical sunscreens at preventing pollution damage need to be treated with caution. Sunscreen is primarily designed to protect against ultraviolet radiation, and there is limited evidence that one sunscreen category offers superior protection against particulate matter.
Is double cleansing necessary during high-pollution days?
Double cleansing has become a popular skincare practice, particularly among people who wear sunscreen or makeup. Sohal recommends using an oil-based cleansing balm or cleansing oil on dry skin, massaging it gently before rinsing and following it with a regular cleanser.
She describes this as an effective way to remove accumulated sunscreen, makeup, sebum and surface debris at the end of the day.
Sohal also recommends using antioxidants in the morning and keeping the rest of the routine focused on hydration and barrier support during periods of high pollution.
The biggest skincare mistake to avoid during Diwali
One mistake Sohal frequently notices during smog season is people skipping sunscreen because the sky looks grey or hazy.
"Given this season has a lot of smog, most people avoid wearing sunscreen," she says, adding that sun protection remains important even when visibility is reduced.
UV radiation can still reach the skin on cloudy or hazy days. Maintaining a broad-spectrum sunscreen routine, cleansing gently at night and keeping the skin moisturised are practical steps during the festive period.
Pollution exposure cannot be completely prevented through skincare. But a consistent routine that supports the skin barrier, alongside efforts to reduce exposure to polluted air, can help limit irritation and protect skin health.
