Explained: How winter smog triggers breakouts and hair fall and what to do about it
The impact of winter smog doesn't stop at the scalp. Skin, too, bears the strain of this smogr. Pollutants clog pores and trigger inflammation, while low humidity leads to extreme dryness and tightness.
New Delhi: Winter smog does not only harm the lungs—it also silently impacts scalp health, weakening hair roots and triggering excessive hair fall, particularly in North India. During winter, cooler air traps pollutants, smoke, and toxic gases closer to the ground, significantly increasing exposure to smog. These airborne pollutants settle on the scalp, clogging hair follicles and disrupting healthy hair growth, ultimately leading to increased hair fall.
The dry winter air strips the scalp of its natural moisture. When combined with high pollution levels, this accelerated moisture loss further weakens hair roots, making hair more prone to breakage and fall. In such harsh conditions, shampoos and conditioners alone often fall short.
Dr Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of Blossom Group of Companies, recommends a few simple, at-home remedies using natural ingredients to help curb excessive hair loss and restore hair flexibility.
One effective remedy involves mixing 10 grams each of lime seed powder and black pepper powder with plain water or ginger juice. Massage this paste gently into the scalp for five minutes and rinse after two hours.
Another nourishing treatment includes a mixture of equal parts lime juice and coconut milk, enhanced with two drops of lavender essential oil. Massage this blend into the scalp, leave it on for four to six hours, and then wash with a mild shampoo. Alternatively, a paste made from crushed hibiscus leaves mixed with one tablespoon of crushed fenugreek seeds can be used for similar benefits.
Incorporating such sustainable practices—using essential oil blends, raw ingredients, and regular scalp massages—aligns with a holistic approach to hair care. These rituals not only address external damage but also support overall well-being, indirectly promoting healthier, stronger hair
The winter smog makes the skin more acne-prone by clogging pores and triggering inflammation and hence leads to extreme dryness and tightness of skin that ultimately leads to breakouts. Skincare products, especially those containing alcohol or harsh chemicals, can disrupt the skin barrier, contributing to dryness.
The impact of winter smog doesn’t stop at the scalp. Skin, too, bears the strain of this smogr. Pollutants clog pores and trigger inflammation, while low humidity leads to extreme dryness and tightness. Together, these conditions make the skin more acne-prone. Harsh skincare products, especially those containing alcohol, further weaken the skin barrier, making breakouts harder to control.
To counter this, Dr Kochhar recommends a few skincare tips rooted in natural ingredients. Cleansing with milk infused with a hint of turmeric helps purify without stripping moisture. Gentle scrubbing using fresh cream and powdered almonds removes dead skin while preserving softness. Rose water restores balance as a toner, while a blend of rose water, glycerine, vinegar, and honey replenishes lost hydration. For deep nourishment, a mask made from mashed banana, vegetable oil, and honey on the skin when left on for 20 minutes before rinsing revitalizes the damaged skin.
The expert also stresses the importance of mindful habits during winter. Staying hydrated helps combat dryness from within, while avoiding hot water and excessive exfoliation prevents further damage to already stressed skin.
Winter smog may be unavoidable, but its effects don't have to steal anyone's glow. By understanding what the hair and skin endure during this harsh season and responding with nourishment, this harsh season can turn into a healing ritual.