When people think of ways to improve their skin, they might automatically jump to drastic methods like laser skin resurfacing or investing in various expensive tinctures and extracts. They don’t consider that the solution might be closer to home. Poor air pollution has a direct correlation with premature aging and skin cancer. Before spending your life savings on creams or going through painful procedures, consider the following home hacks that will help naturally improve your skin.
Change Your HVAC Filters
The main way that pollution gets into your home is from the outside. It can come in when you open the front door or travel through the workings of your HVAC system as it draws in air. Luckily, your HVAC system has a filter that purifies and processes the air before sending it into your living spaces.
Over time, however, these filters get clogged with all the dirt and other debris, becoming less and less effective. This means more pollutants will get through, causing certain conditions like acne, age spots, skin-darkening, or rosacea.
Put an end to these issues before they happen by changing your air filter on a regular basis. The process is simple and should only take a few minutes. If you need help, call your local repair and service technician.
Install UV Lights
HVAC filters are effective, but they won’t capture 100 percent of contaminants. To do that, you can install a UV light in your system. UV lights naturally break down the cell wall and kill bacteria, allergens, and other irritants that can wreak havoc on your fragile skin.
UV lights also work against viruses that cause colds and the flu, helping you to stay well during the cold winter months. Without an illness bogging you down, your skin will maintain its healthy glow.
Cut Out the Chemicals
Image via Flickr by Collin Anderson
Every time you use bleach to wipe down the floors or disinfecting spray to clean the counters, you are filling your home with dangerous chemicals that can have a negative impact on your overall wellbeing. Make the switch to organic and VOC-free products to keep these particles from causing your skin to lose its luster.
Ban Smoking
It should come as no surprise that smoking can have a negative influence on your indoor air quality. In fact, estimates show that it accounts for 30 percent of indoor air pollution. Kick smokers to the curb, and you should notice your healthy glow returning.
Add Some Plants
Plants are a beautiful touch to any home, as they add a refreshing splash of green. Beyond the aesthetics, plants are great at removing toxins from the air that hurt your skin, such as volatile organic compounds. While they won’t be as successful as a fresh HVAC filter or air purifier, they are a nifty natural solution for keeping the air fresh and clean.
Consider plants like aloe vera, spider plant, snake plant, or a Chinese evergreen, as these have special toxin-removing abilities.
Obviously, there are many other factors in having healthy skin, including eating a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, and exercise. However, fixing your indoor air quality is a great step in the overall process of improving your skin’s appearance.
