City-Proof Your Beauty Routine With These Skin and Hair Staples

While the bright lights, nightlife, and centrally-located apartments (that put you smack dab in the center of it all) are undoubtedly alluring, city living can take a toll on your skin and hair.

The debris and free radicals flying around can impact skin clarity, brightness, and elasticity. Hair is also susceptible to environmental oxidation, which can fade color and damage strands. Plus, cities that don’t sleep can affect your ability to catch adequate z’s, which can disturb your overall health.

Not to worry - we have suggestions to help combat environmental aggressors and even help you sleep better. Here’s our lineup of staples that’ll protect you against the rigors of urban living.

Sisley-Paris Triple-Oil Balm Makeup Remover & Cleanser, $140

As you traverse the concrete jungle, dirt, debris, and more make their way into pores. A cleansing balm that helps you properly take off the day is key. To keep skin clear and radiant, opt for a balm that’s specifically formulated to remove makeup and cleanse skin of the pollution you’ve encountered. This one from Sisley-Paris transforms from a balm to a delicate oil, gently nourishing and removing impurities. With mango butter, macadamia oil, and shea oil, the formula caresses skin to impart added smoothness and hydration.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops, $150

Air pollution produces free radicals which can damage our protective skin barrier and contribute to premature aging. Creams and lotions alone won’t cut it when it comes to shielding these ultrafine particles - but just a couple drops of this product can make a positive impact. These Anti-Pollution Drops from Dr. Barbara Sturm strengthen skin’s defense against atmospheric aging through an antioxidant-rich formula. Infused with purslane extract (rich in antioxidants that provide radical protection), cocoa seed extract (combats digital aging), and Alteromonas ferment extract (an antipollution ingredient that shields against oxidative stress, urban pollution, and toxic chemicals), consider your skin better defended against urban aggressors. Add a few drops to your favorite moisturizer to reap the benefits.

BeautyStat Probiotic 24HR Moisture Boost Cream Moisturizer, $32

Preventative work is important, but couple your protective measures while treating the current state of your complexion. This moisturizer from BeautyStat ensures skin remains balanced and hydrated while repairing the negative effects of free radicals. The formula harnesses hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and pomegranate sterols to maintain optimum moisture levels, revitalize, and minimize premature lines and wrinkles. Plus, it’s infused with Ganoderma (a mushroom-derived probiotic) that helps detoxify, fight pollution, and heal skin.

Oribe Power Drops Hydration & Anti-Pollution Booster, $58

With excess levels of free radicals, hair is more susceptible to oxidative stress. And when we have an antioxidant deficit, we can’t counteract oxidative stress. This leads to aged strands, hair loss, graying, and color shifts. Incorporate these hydrating, antipollution drops into your hair routine for defense against environmental pollution with an intense dose of moisture. Infused with a high concentration of antioxidants, a few drops can be mixed with other hair products to strengthen the hair barrier, condition, maintain color vibrancy, and protect against environmental oxidation.

Slip Sleep Mist, $32 & Slip Beauty Sleepover Set, $59

Big city living can disrupt your sleep patterns, which can affect not only your skin and hair, but also your overall health. If you live in an area with bright street lights, constant traffic, and all that urban noise, falling asleep can be tricky. However, this calming chamomile and lavender sleep mist can work wonders to create a restful environment. Also, invest in this 100% silk plush sleep mask, which effectively blocks light while hugging the contours of your face to prevent skin and lash friction. The silk scrunchies also keep hair in place without tugging to prevent breakage.