Our air today is unfortunately often polluted with exhaust fumes, cigarette smoke, by-products of manufacturing processes (e.g. phthalates from plastics), particulate matter, and smog (fine dust in reaction with sunlight), among others. Although air pollution is a global problem, its nature is different everywhere. There is a difference between urban and rural areas, but climate and season also play a role. Air pollution can therefore vary from day to day and even from moment to moment. In general, air is ‘dirtier’ in warm areas or during hot periods.
When we think about the effects of air pollution on our health, most of us associate it with the health effects of inhaled air. Particulate matter exposure in particular is a well-known source of harm in this regard. In recent years, however, it has become increasingly clear that the skin also suffers.
What is the effect of air pollution on the skin?
The skin is everywhere and always in direct contact with the air in which we live and move. Air pollution causes the formation of free radicals. Smog in particular is a cause of a disrupted skin barrier and higher sensitivity to UV radiation. This unbalances the skin and accelerates the process of skin ageing, which can manifest as:
- Pigmentation spots
- An uneven dull complexion
- Wrinkles
- Enlarged pores
- Red, sensitive skin
- Dry skin that feels itchy and/or tight (i.e. dehydrated skin)
What can you do yourself to protect your skin?
It is very good that more and more people are becoming aware that factors such as sun, smoking and environmental pollution have negative effects on the condition of the skin. The most important remedy and challenge against external damage is to make sure your skin is in as good a condition as possible, i.e. has as much resistance as possible.
- You do this by taking proper daily care of your skin with mild ingredients that leave the skin barrier intact and strengthen it. Use antioxidant-rich products in both your diet and skincare.
- In addition, cleansing is a crucial part of your skincare routine. Use a mild, rinse-off cleanser to rid the skin of dirt and dust particles. When doing so, avoid irritating ingredients or powerful detergents; they damage the skin barrier, which only makes it easier for pollution to enter.
- Moreover, even if you are dead tired at night, never sleep in the clothes you have worn during the day; your clothes too contain pollutants that have accumulated during the day.
- It is also good to regularly exfoliate your skin to keep it strong and in shape.
