Thanks to construction, firecrackers, crop burning, coal-fired power stations and relentless traffic, pictures of Delhi look hazy during winters and it only gets worse around Diwali.

So much so that indoor workouts appear healthier than morning walks in the park and the anti-ageing routine almost stops working.

This is why you should always factor the air quality of your region into your grooming routine. The invisibly small particles that envelop the streets can penetrate the lungs and skin with greater ease. 

While you can’t control the other factors all by yourself, you can follow this self-care routine around Diwali to prevent premature ageing of your hair and skin. 

Scrub The Dead Skin Away

Skin starts to feel particularly flaky and grimy around this time, you can blame the weather and the air quality for that. To reveal the fresh skin under the dirt and dead skin, exfoliate twice a week. Your skin will look noticeably young, clean and fresh.

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Face Mask Is Your Friend

Whenever you take a 30-minute break from having fun during the holiday season, wash and scrub your face thoroughly and use a face mask. You can use an application mask if your issues are deeper like acne. 

However, remember that clay masks, in particular, are drying. So use it only if you have oily or combination skin. Moisturise properly after washing it off.

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Sheet masks are hassle-free and hydrating. If you have dry skin, slap on a sheet mask and keep it on for 20 minutes flat. 

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Moisturise & Stay Hydrated

The smog-filled air and the cold season demands a lot of moisturisation and hydration. Apply a layer of moisturiser after you wash your face and before you use any makeup product to keep your skin nourished. Maintain 2-3 litres of daily water intake to keep your skin healthy and firm. 

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Hair Mask Is A Must Too

Air pollution leaves your hair thirsting for moisture and natural oils which is why both hair massages and hair masks become important. 

Get a hair massage of hot oil. Leave it for 20-30 minutes. Wash your hair and put on a hot water towel for 5 minutes. Apply a hair mask and rinse off after 15-20 minutes to nourish your scalp and tresses.

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You Can’t Skip The Sunscreen

Just because the sun is hiding behind the fog, don’t assume you can skip the sunscreen. You should apply more sunscreen during the festive season. Sunscreen will only protect your skin from UV rays but also act as a barrier for your skin against pollution.

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Don’t Step Out With Wet Hair

Stepping out with wet hair invites more grime, dust and pollution to stick to your scalp. The harmful particles settle into the hair follicles and freeze once the hair dries. This leads to breakage and hair fall. Air-dry your hair fully before stepping out. If you’re running out of time, use a blow dryer.

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Use Aloe Vera Gel As A Leave-In Conditioner

Aloe vera is a miracle elixir that can reduce dandruff (which is a big issue during winter) and condition your mane. 

Rubbing aloe gel on your scalp and tresses after a wash can control hair fall caused by pollution. It can make your hair shinier and more manageable. Don’t shy away from using a generous amount of aloe vera gel as a natural leave-in conditioner.

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The Bottomline

Not only is an anti-pollution routine a necessity in this season, but it is also a new feel-good thing you can make time to explore in the holiday season. You relax, your skin and hair relax with you!

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