India is the third-most polluted country in the world. The primary reason for India to obtain such a dubious distinction is the rising pollution in cities like Bangalore and New Delhi. In fact, in a study, Bangalore was ranked 673 in the most polluted cities in the world out of 7812 cities worldwide. While the impact of harmful pollutants on respiratory health has been widely discussed in the past, its effect on the skin has not grabbed enough eyeballs. In this article, we will dive deep into the harmful effects of pollution on the skin and cover some handy tips to counter them.
Harmful effects of air pollution on skin
Here is a breakdown of the different harmful impacts of air pollution on your skin –
Air pollution causes oxidative stress
In technical terms, oxidative stress means causing an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body. Free radicals are unstable atoms that have the ability to damage your cells, including skin cells. Antioxidants, on the other hand, neutralize these free radicals and reverse aging. As you would have rightly guessed by now, air pollution increases the formation of free radicals, which, in turn, damages collagen and elastin fibers, key components responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. This ultimately results in fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Causes inflammation
Do you regularly experience redness, itching, and swelling? It could be air pollution behind it. Pollutants like PM2.5 can trigger inflammatory responses in your skin. In fact, conditions like eczema and dermatitis can get worse when your skin is exposed to polluted air for a long time, leading to inflammation. According to experts, pollutants can enter both the superficial and deep layers of skin by taking the transcutaneous and systemic routes.
Leads to dehydration
Air pollution can disrupt and damage your skin’s natural barrier. This automatically leads to constant water loss from your skin, leading to skin dehydration and dryness. And we all know that dry skin can often appear dull and lifeless. It is also common to find such skin to have a rough texture and high sensitivity to external stimuli.
Possible cause of skin cancer
This is probably the rarest impact, but still a side-effect of long exposure to air pollutants. As we have already highlighted, air pollution can damage the DNA in your skin cells. This, in turn, can be the reason for the development of skin cancer.
How to prevent the harmful effects of skin pollution on skin?
Here are some handy tips you can adopt to protect your skin from the harmful effects of skin pollution –
Use sunscreens
Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is essential to shield your skin from harmful UV radiation. UV rays can exacerbate the damage caused by air pollution, leading to accelerated skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and make it a part of your daily skincare routine.
Use skincare products containing antioxidants
Incorporate skincare products containing antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, into your routine. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals generated by pollution, reducing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage. Serums and moisturizers with antioxidant properties can be particularly effective.
Consult a dermatologist
Be vigilant about any unusual changes in your skin, such as persistent redness, new spots, or changes in existing moles. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing potential skin issues. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can help detect and address problems early, ensuring your skin stays healthy.
Get air purifiers
Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home to improve indoor air quality. These filters can capture a significant amount of airborne pollutants, reducing the exposure of your skin to harmful particles. Keeping indoor air clean can help minimize the impact of outdoor pollution.
Have a balanced diet
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supports skin health from the inside out. Foods such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fish provide essential nutrients that can help your skin combat the effects of pollution. A balanced diet can enhance your skin’s natural defense mechanisms and promote overall well-being.
Keep your skin and yourself hydrated
Maintaining a well-hydrated skin barrier is crucial in protecting against pollution. Use moisturizers that lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s barrier function. Additionally, drinking adequate water throughout the day ensures that your skin stays hydrated and resilient against environmental stressors.
Conclusion
The increasing levels of air pollutants in metros like Bangalore can compromise your skin health. While combating air pollution is the best thing to do, it is not an overnight solution. You can instead adopt the protective measures highlighted in this post and maintain healthy skin. However, it is very important to consult with your dermatologist in case you find any changes to your skin. If you are in Bangalore and looking for a dermatologist, you can consult Dr. Renu Nair, who has more than ten years of experience handling various skin issues. Book an appointment right now.
