With bush fires still burning across New South Wales, it’s not surprising many of our patients are concerned about the poor air quality that is sweeping across the state, and other parts of Australia.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is ‘the world’s single largest environmental risk‘.
Back in October 2014, the WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified air pollution as a group 1 carcinogen for the first time. This puts air pollution into the same category as smoking cigarettes, with ‘sufficient evidence’ that frequent exposure can cause lung cancer.
Here are some fast tips to cope better with the bushfire smog and dust:
Wear a mask
Wear a mask and sunglasses when outdoors for long periods (especially those with asthma and respiratory weaknesses) A mask will help to filter large particles of debris and toxins. For small particles however, you will need a high quality mask.
Visit your local Bunnings to get the Protector P2 Dust / Mist Work Mate Disposable Respirator >>
The Vogmask mask is an anti-pollution face mask designed for babies, children and adults. The company began producing masks in 2013 to protect partygoers from dust at the Burning Man festival in the Nevada desert. They claim to remove at least 99 per cent of airborne particles.
Reduce air pollution inside
Invest in indoor plants for your home and office as they are our natural air filters.
I have one or two in each room including, fiddle leaf plants, maiden hair, Madonna lily and Draceara, which are all pretty low maintenance.
Himalayan lamps are also great, natural air cleansers.
Antioxidant support
Nourish your body with ample water and lots of fresh green vegetables.
Hydrate your skin too. I have noticed how the current dusty, smokey environment is drying out our skin. Therefore, I like to cleanse with a facial oil (almond oil is my favourite) and use antioxidant serums with Vitamin C (the Weleda pomegranate serum and the pomegranate eye cream work well). Weleda’s skin food is also good for very dry skin on the face and body.
To order our Weleda range, complete an Order Form or contact our Reception on 02 9216 7600.
Note: Last call for supplement orders this year will be Thursday 12th December. Orders will open again from Friday 3rd January.
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