With the arrival of colder weather, it is important to
remember that UV exposure is not the only danger your skin faces. Outdoor and
indoor air pollution is a constant threat and can cause a variety of issues,
including premature aging, dryness, skin rashes, eczema and acne. It is helpful
to know how air pollution can harm your skin to better understand ways to
prevent this damage.
Recent research is causing doctors and scientists to agree
that next to UV rays, pollution is one of the main sources of skin damage. As
our outer layer, skin is our first defense against the increasing free radicals
in the atmosphere. During repeated exposure to air pollution, proteins and
lipids in our skin barrier are broken down by the gases in the atmosphere. This
can lead to the breakdown of collagen, and over time, will lead to serious
damage.
Outdoor pollution comes in many forms, including
ground-level ozone, which is a gas created from the toxic emissions from cars
and factories combined with sunlight. Dirt particles from smog and gas can also
affect the surface of the skin, increasing inflammation and causing premature
aging.
Indoor air pollution can be caused by a number of things as
well, and while not entirely unavoidable, we should be aware of them. Particles
from pressed wood products and foam insulation can cause dry skin, irritation
and rashes. Second-hand cigarette smoke can also negatively affect skin
condition.
While densely populated urban areas and areas with high
levels of manufacturing are at a greater risk for air pollution damage, poor
air quality can affect all types of communities. Therefore, it is smart to take
preventative steps to reduce the damage caused by pollution. Large beauty and
pharmaceutical companies such as Estee Lauder are taking note of this and are
also offering more products to counteract this damage.
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Antioxidants: These helpful substances that can
fight free radicals can be applied topically (in a serum) or eaten in foods like
brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, carrots, bell
peppers, leafy greens and blueberries.
·
Plan ahead: If poor air quality conditions are
forecast, try to wear long sleeved shirts.
·
Clean regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a
HEPA filter and vacuum regularly to clean dust particles. Keep air filters
clean.
·
Stay hydrated: Moisturizers will help keep your
skin strong against the pollution particles.
·
Healthy routines: Deep clean your face daily to
remove the tiny particulate matter that can collect in your pores.
Over time, pollution can be
harmful to our skin, and it’s important to prevent as well as treat that
damage. Our team at Greenville Dermatology can recommend products or treatments
depending on the severity of the affects to your skin. Call Greenville
Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.
