New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi NCR has taken a hit as the pollution levels continue to soar and AQI reaches alarming levels. This has raised several concerns not only for respiratory health but also for skin and hair health. Considering the impact of pollution in triggering skin concerns, Clinikally, an integrated marketplace for skincare and haircare conducted an online survey to identify the trends picking up in the market. As part of the survey findings, Clinikally has recorded an 8.2% increase in the demand for anti-oxidant serums and moisturisers in Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram.
This reflects a critical need to raise awareness among consumers about protecting their skin from the adverse effects of pollution. The survey stats also state a 2X jump in the demand for skin protection serums from 4486 in February to a whopping 8428 in November 2024, specifically post-Diwali.
Direct exposure to polluted air is extremely harmful to skin health as dirt and grime cause clogging of pores, leading to breakouts and acne. Additionally, oxidative stress on the skin can result in premature ageing, uneven skin tone, increase in dryness and sensitivity. Furthermore, winter’s dry air equally increases skin damage which requires a rise in environmental awareness drive for skincare protection.
Witnessing the surge in demand, Dr. Anindita Sarkar, Chief Medical Officer, Clinikally & AAYNA Clinics said, “The surge in demand is primarily for products addressing acne, redness, and skin barrier protection. Exposure to high pollution levels can cause skin inflammation, irritation, and breakouts which have increased particularly after Diwali and require a rigorous skincare regimen to combat NCR’s harsh winter and pollution.”
As a solution to skin protection, Clinikally’s survey findings exhibit a sharp increase in the demand for skin solution products to combat inflammation and barrier repair. The survey unveiled, that consumers purchased 2040 skin solutions in November, a rise of 44.1% from 1180 in February; and 548 skin ointments in November from 154 in February.
“As an extensive skincare regime, consumers are increasingly looking for healing and protective skin products. There is a heightened awareness among the urban population, as they constantly explore ways to combat pollution-induced skin irritation and damage,” she added.
Moreover, the survey also highlights the growing need for pollution and sunscreen resilience skincare with consistently high growth in these products across seasons. The uptick from 9545 orders received on Clinikally’s platform in February to record a peak at 16683 in November, the trend highlights the robust need for protection from NCR’s high UV exposure even during winter.
As consumers are becoming proactive about adopting a preventive skincare approach, Dr Sarkar further added, “Pollution increases UV radiation penetration. Since consumers are now better aware of the perks of protecting skin from the sun, urban consumers can adopt a consistent skincare routine and significantly prevent the chances of skin cancer and premature ageing”.
Since pollution has a direct impact on hair health, consumers are adopting a hair care Defensive Strategy. The survey findings showcase a substantial increase in the orders of hair supplements from 2650 in February to 5692 in November; and hair serums from 1561 in February to 4156 in November. The trend is attributed to the rising male and female grooming consciousness, especially during winter’s dry air and environmental stress.
“There is a strong correlation between environmental challenges and product adoption. As consumers continue to adopt a proactive health and beauty approach, we project a 20% growth in the ongoing month, contrary to 0.5 to 1% MOM increase. Subsequently, this will reinforce the instrumental role of Clinikally in bringing science-backed skincare solutions to the market,” she added.
Direct exposure to polluted air is extremely harmful to skin health as dirt and grime cause clogging of pores, leading to breakouts and acne. Additionally, oxidative stress on the skin can result in premature ageing, uneven skin tone, increase in dryness and sensitivity. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
