Serums. The life force of our skincare routine. Hailed the most important component of the ritual at hand, serums have taken control of our top-shelves in the past years. From simple Hyaluronic acids to coveted Vitamin C, a potent recipe to glowing skin lies in the promise of a tiny dropper bottle of vastly ranging prices. Today, we're talking about one serum that lies towards the top of said price range, the Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Pollution Drops.
Dr. Sturm has long been a cult favourite, and it's no wonder why. It's science-based approach to skincare means you're likely to only get the creme of the crop, and it shows. As someone who is heavily invested in my skin's barrier function, the Anti-Pollution Drops was one I'd had my eye on to try. While most Vitamin C-based antioxidant serums break me out, it would appear this one is cut from a different cloth.
The serum itself is formulated to protect our skin from particulate pollution and blue light from electronic screens - a new phenomenon that is often overlooked but can cause unnecessary damage. Digital pollution in the form of High Energy Visible (HEV) rays produces highly unstable molecules called 'free radicals,' that damage the skin's barrier, which, as we know, affects the overall look and feel of the complexion. One of the biggest threats to our skin in the modern world is over pollution, so finding a product that can combat this is important, especially for those of us living in the city.
The Pollution Drops also contain a signature 'Skin Protect Complex', with extracts derived from Marine Microorganisms to help strengthen the skin’s defence against urban pollution and signs of atmospheric skin ageing. The result? Skin that feels comforted, hydrated, and protected. Since using for around one month, I have noticed a huge decrease in dehydration and an increase in how generally healthy my complexion appears, while keeping seasonal breakouts at bay.
While the serum itself may cost as much as one weeks rent in a share house, it's advised to apply roughly three drops after moisturiser. A little goes a long way, for a long time, and for myself, it's been decided that my barrier function is worth the splurge.
