How Air Quality (AQI) Is Ageing Your Skin

Delhi winters, Bangalore traffic, Mumbai monsoons — every city has a different pollution skin threat.

India has 39 of the world's 50 most polluted cities. For your skin, every day you commute in heavy pollution is like adding invisible damage that compounds over years.

What AQI Levels Mean for Your Skin

AQI 0–50 (Good): Normal routine
AQI 51–100 (Moderate): Antioxidant serum recommended
AQI 101–150 (Unhealthy for sensitive): Double cleanse at night
AQI 151–200 (Unhealthy): Pollution barrier cream essential
AQI 200+ (Very Unhealthy): Niacinamide + double SPF day

The Free Radical Cascade

PM2.5 particles generate free radicals on contact with skin. Free radicals are unstable molecules that steal electrons from healthy skin cells, triggering a cascade of oxidative damage — collagen breakdown, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation.

40%

faster skin ageing in high pollution environments vs clean air

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The Anti-Pollution Stack

Vitamin C (blocks oxidation) + Niacinamide (repairs barrier) + SPF 50+ (blocks UV) is the gold standard anti-pollution trio. CommuteGlow recommends this exact combination on high AQI days.

The Double Cleanse Rule

On high AQI days, a single face wash at night isn't enough. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve pollution particles trapped in sebum, then follow with a gentle foam or gel cleanser to clear the skin's surface. This prevents overnight accumulation damage.

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