Air Pollution: Dirtying Your Face And Health

Air pollution is defined as the contamination of the environment by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. Sources of air pollution can be natural, such as volcanic eruptions, or human-made, such as industrial emissions. As the skin is the body's largest organ, it is susceptible to environmental stressors and damage from air pollutants. These pollutants can cause skin problems such as premature ageing, acne, and skin discolouration. They can also lead to more serious issues such as skin inflammation, immune-related skin diseases, and even skin tumours. While air pollution can indeed dirty your face, it can also have more severe consequences for skin health.

Skin ageing and pigmentation

Air pollution is considered a harmful environmental risk to human skin and is known to promote ageing and inflammation of this tissue, leading to the onset of skin disorders and the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation issues.

Particulate matter penetrates the skin through hair follicles or transdermally and exerts its detrimental effects through the generation of oxidative stress, which contributes to extrinsic skin ageing, particularly characterised by pigment spots on the face and nasolabial folds. The most harmful components of ambient particulate matter are nanoparticles from traffic sources. An increase in soot and particles from traffic has been associated with a 20% increase in pigment spots on the forehead and cheeks.

Ultraviolet radiation is a physical pollutant. The depletion of stratospheric ozone by environmental pollutants, such as photochemical smog, supersonic aircraft flights and refrigerant gases, increases the penetration of shorter ultraviolet wavelengths to the ground level. The effects of ultraviolet radiation on human skin differ depending on the wavelength. Exposure to ultraviolet A results in extrinsic skin ageing (photoaging) characterised by coarse wrinkles, solar elastosis and pigment irregularities.

Oxidative stress caused by air pollution can also lead to skin pigmentation problems, an uneven skin tone and dullness, as well as the formation of wrinkles. People with sensitive skin types and those suffering from inflammatory skin diseases such as eczema are more susceptible to the effects of air pollution as they have a compromised skin barrier to start with.

To protect the skin from the ageing and pigmentation effects of air pollution, skincare products with SPF protection and antioxidants such as Vitamin E & C, and Green Tea Extract can be used to help fight free radicals on the skin's surface layers.

Skin diseases

Air pollution is defined as the contamination of the outdoor or indoor environment by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. The skin, being the largest and outermost body organ, acts as a barrier against environmental factors. However, when the skin is exposed to prolonged and repetitive environmental stressors, its normal defensive potential can be exceeded, leading to a disturbance in the skin barrier function and the development of various skin diseases.

Some of the major air pollutants that can contribute to skin issues include solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, cigarette smoke, heavy metals, and arsenic. These pollutants can cause oxidative stress, which counters the skin's antioxidant defenses, leading to inflammation and skin damage.

One of the most common skin conditions associated with air pollution is acne. Exposure to pollutants can block pores and trigger acne breakouts, leading to aggravated acne and acneiform eruptions. In addition, air pollution can contribute to premature ageing, with increased fine lines, wrinkles, redness, and blotchiness. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide, a common pollutant from car exhaust or power plant emissions, can also lead to the formation of dark spots on the skin.

Other skin diseases influenced by air pollution include:

• Atopic dermatitis: Volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides have been linked to the development and exacerbation of this condition.
• Psoriasis: Inflammatory skin disease that can be triggered by air pollutants.
• Skin cancer: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and UV radiation from the sun are associated with an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Hyperpigmentation: Air pollution can contribute to skin discolouration and the formation of dark spots.

To mitigate the negative effects of air pollution on the skin, it is recommended to incorporate pollution-fighting ingredients into skincare routines, such as niacinamide, which has been proven to restore and strengthen the skin's protective barrier. Additionally, antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and green tea extract can help neutralize free radicals on the skin's surface, reducing the impact of toxic air pollutants. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants may also provide protection from the damaging effects of air pollution.

Skin cancer

Air pollution has been shown to have detrimental effects on skin health and is considered the biggest environmental health risk to humans. The skin acts as a physical, chemical, and immunological barrier against environmental factors, but when exposed to prolonged and repetitive environmental stressors, its function is disturbed, leading to various skin diseases.

One of the most serious health risks associated with air pollution is skin cancer. The depletion of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere increases the penetration of ultraviolet rays, leading to an increase in skin cancers and an earlier age of onset. Ultraviolet A and B radiation damage DNA through different mechanisms, causing a cascade of oxidative events that result in cell deterioration. This DNA damage, gene mutation, and immune suppression can lead to carcinogenesis.

Ultraviolet radiation, a "physical" pollutant, is considered the most significant factor in most skin cancers. The genotoxicity of UV light and its carcinogenic effects are well-documented. Epidemiological studies have also found a direct link between exposure to airborne particulate matter (PM) and the occurrence of prominent skin aging signs, including pigment spots and wrinkles.

Other pollutants that react with the skin and contribute to skin cancer include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and ozone. PAHs, such as benzo[a]pyrene, are associated with extrinsic skin aging, pigmentation issues, and skin cancers. VOCs, such as benzene, have also been linked to skin cancer development.

While air pollution poses a significant risk, there are ways to mitigate its harmful effects. Understanding the complex mechanisms by which pollutants affect the skin can guide the development of protective and restorative skincare products. Additionally, adopting strategies to reduce air pollution, such as advocating for clean air, non-fossil fuel energy sources, and environmental protections, is crucial to minimize the risk of skin cancer and other skin disorders associated with air pollution.

Skin cleansing routines

Air pollution can have a detrimental effect on the skin, causing dark spots, premature ageing, redness, blotchiness, acne, and skin cancer. It is important to incorporate pollution-fighting ingredients into your skincare routine to protect your skin from these harmful effects.

A good skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy and radiant skin. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating an effective skin cleansing routine:

Step 1: Cleanse

Choose a cleanser that suits your skin type. Look for mild, water-based cleansers with a neutral pH to avoid irritation. Massage the cleanser into wet skin, focusing on each area of your face and neck, and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Be sure to cleanse consistently, both morning and night, to keep your skin fresh and prevent breakouts.

Step 2: Exfoliate

Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. You can use a commercial or homemade lip and face scrub, such as jojoba oil, cucumber, sugar, or baking soda. Be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate the skin.

Step 3: Tone

Toners help to replenish and hydrate the skin while removing any remaining dirt, dead cells, and impurities after cleansing. Choose a toner without alcohol to avoid irritation, especially if you have dry skin.

Step 4: Serum

Apply a serum containing antioxidants like vitamins C, E, and green tea extract to protect your skin from unstable molecules known as free radicals. Serums can also help address specific skin concerns, such as acne, discolouration, and skin texture.

Step 5: Moisturise

Moisturising is crucial, especially after exposure to air pollution, as it helps to nourish and protect the skin. Look for moisturisers with ingredients like cocoa butter, olive oil, or hyaluronic acid to promote skin regeneration and reduce the appearance of damage.

In addition to this regular skin cleansing routine, you can also incorporate the following into your weekly regimen:

• Steam your face once a week after massaging your skin with almond or coconut oil.
• Apply a face mask, such as a chocolate face pack or a mixture of yoghurt, lemon juice, and honey, to deeply cleanse and nourish the skin.
• Use ice cubes with green tea or rose water, adding cucumber juice, and roll them on your face to refresh and relax your skin.

Skin protection

Understand the Impact of Air Pollution on Skin

Firstly, it's important to recognize the detrimental effects of air pollution on your skin. Air pollution is defined as the contamination of the environment by chemical, physical, or biological agents that alter the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. These pollutants can have severe health implications, and the skin, being the largest organ in the body, is particularly vulnerable.

Choose the Right Skincare Products

Select skincare products that are designed to combat pollution. Look for ingredients such as:

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This ingredient has been proven to restore and strengthen the skin's protective barrier, improve hydration, and promote skin surface exfoliation.
• Antioxidants: Vitamins C, E, and green tea extract help fight free radicals on the skin's surface.
• Melatonin: This ingredient has the potential to prevent oxidative damage to the skin caused by pollutants, heavy metals, and smoking.
• SPF: Choose products with SPF to protect against harmful UV rays, which can interact with pollutants to cause further damage.

Adopt a Skincare Routine

Establish a daily skincare routine that incorporates the chosen products. Cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities, but be careful not to strip the skin of its natural oils. Follow up with a serum or moisturizer to create a protective layer on the skin, trapping smog particles and preventing chemicals from penetrating deeply.

Additional Measures

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and provides essential antioxidants.
• Face Masks: Use natural ingredients like papaya, chocolate, yoghurt, lemon juice, honey, milk, and rose water to create nourishing and cleansing face masks.
• Steam: Take steam with added essential oils once a week after massaging your skin with almond or coconut oil.
• Protective Clothing: When venturing outdoors, consider wearing clothing that covers your skin to act as a barrier against direct exposure to pollutants.

By following these steps, you can effectively protect your skin from the harmful effects of air pollution and maintain its health and radiance.

Frequently asked questions