Anti-Pollution Skincare: Can Antioxidants Really Help?

June 26, 2026

Skincare aimed at pollution has become common. The underlying science is real, even if the marketing sometimes runs ahead of it. Here is a measured look.

Pollution and skin ageing

Research has linked air pollution with visible signs of skin ageing. A study in Scientific Reports found that indoor fine particle (PM2.5) exposure was associated with skin ageing manifestations (Li et al., 2017, PMID 29127390), adding to earlier reviews describing how environmental factors influence skin ageing (Krutmann et al., 2012, PMID 23467702).

Where antioxidants come in

Part of pollution's effect on skin is thought to involve free radicals. Antioxidants are the skincare category aimed at this. Vitamin C is one of the most studied skincare antioxidants, with a recognised role in antioxidant defence and in the normal formation of collagen (Pullar et al., 2017, PMID 28805671).

A sensible anti-pollution routine

Cleanse in the evening to remove the day's build-up.
Use an antioxidant serum, such as a vitamin C, in the morning.
Wear sunscreen daily, since UV and pollution together are harder on skin.

At Verdo we stock the Medik8 C-Tetra vitamin C serum and the higher strength Medik8 Super C Ferulic.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. The studies cited are from peer-reviewed journals and are provided for educational context. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before changing your routine. Verdo Cosmetics makes no therapeutic claims about the products or services mentioned.

Frequently asked questions

Does pollution affect your skin?

Research has associated air pollution with visible signs of skin ageing. A study found indoor fine particle (PM2.5) exposure was linked to skin ageing manifestations (Li et al., 2017).

Do anti-pollution skincare products work?

Part of pollution's effect is thought to involve free radicals, which is what antioxidants target. Vitamin C is a well-studied antioxidant (Pullar et al., 2017). Cleansing and daily sunscreen also matter.

What is the best routine for city living?

Cleanse in the evening, use an antioxidant serum like vitamin C in the morning, and wear sunscreen daily, since UV and pollution together are harder on skin.

Is vitamin C good for pollution defence?

Vitamin C is one of the most studied skincare antioxidants and has a recognised role in antioxidant defence and collagen formation (Pullar et al., 2017), which is why it features in many anti-pollution routines.

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