High pollution levels are one of the main causes of premature ageing.
Pollutants such as cigarette smoke, car exhaust fumes and heavy metal emissions help to fast-track pigmentation, lines and wrinkles and skin sensitivity by generating free radical production on the skin’s surface.
Anti-pollution skincare and cosmetic products first became a major trend about 10 years ago and it remains a growing one. Key product launches in the category include Maybelline New York Dream Urban Cover Protective Makeup, Dr Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Murad City Skin Overnight Detox Moisturizer, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum and Biologi Defence Anti-Pollution Morning Serum.
The use of plant extracts, activated charcoal and metal chelators in anti-pollution products has escalated in recent years, says Future Market Insights (FMI). The global market researcher reports that worldwide sales of anti-pollution ingredients will exceed US$870.4 million ($1.3 billion) by the end of 2022.
Skincare accounts for 50 per cent of global demand for anti-pollution ingredients, says FMI, mainly for facial masks, cleansers and moisturisers.
Hair can also be damaged by tiny particles of dust, smoke and other pollutants. Recent product launches in the category include Oribe Power Drops, Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Triple Detox Shampoo, Sachajuan Scalp Treatment, Aveda Scalp Benefits and Klorane Scalp Detox with Aquatic Mint Shampoo and Conditioner.
Anti-pollution products are strongly in demand in Asia, adds FMI, and the APAC region accounts for more than 50 per cent of global anti-pollution ingredient sales.
Other common ingredients in anti-pollution products include Vitamins E and A, glycolic and salicylic acids, niacinamide, antioxidants and polymer-based ingredients.
The anti-pollution ingredient market is expected to enjoy 5.4 per cent annual growth as major multinationals increase investment in R&D solutions such as serums, sunscreens and facial mists to penetrate deeper into the skin to prevent pollution-induced premature ageing, adds FMI.