Meghan Hodges
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with a buildup of dead skin cells, excess sebum, dirt, and bacteria. While internal factors such as genetics, hormones, and age play a significant role in acne development, external factors like cosmetic products and environmental pollution can also influence skin health and contribute to acne breakouts. Environmental pollution, particularly outdoor air pollution, has been linked to an increased risk of acne, with studies finding a positive association between exposure to ambient air pollution and the occurrence of inflammatory acne in adults. This is especially pertinent given that, in 2016, a staggering 91% of the world's population lived in areas that did not meet the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines.
This paragraph introduces the topic of acne caused by pollution, highlighting the role of both internal and external factors in acne development, with a particular focus on the influence of environmental pollution. It also presents the global health concern of air pollution, providing context for the discussion on acne exacerbation due to poor air quality.
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What You'll Learn
- Cleanse and exfoliate your skin to prevent clogged follicles
- Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays
- Avoid using cosmetic products that may clog your pores
- Stay away from highly polluted areas to reduce exposure to pollutants
- Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser to prevent moisture loss and excess sebum production
Cleanse and exfoliate your skin to prevent clogged follicles
Clogged hair follicles are a common cause of acne. They occur when the follicle becomes blocked or congested by a combination of excess oils, dirt, dead skin, and bacteria. To prevent this, it is important to cleanse and gently exfoliate your skin regularly.
When cleansing your skin, use a gentle, mild, or antibacterial cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps, and opt for non-comedogenic products, which are specially formulated not to clog pores. Wash your face twice a day with a cleanser and warm water, taking care not to use water that is too hot, as this can dry out your skin.
It is also important to exfoliate your skin to prevent clogged follicles. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and dirt, which can otherwise accumulate and block your follicles. There are two main types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation involves using a gentle scrubbing product, while chemical exfoliation uses products containing hydroxy acids, such as salicylic or glycolic acid, to break down the substances blocking your follicles. If you are experiencing acne, it is recommended to exfoliate gently, as harsh exfoliation can further irritate your skin.
In addition to cleansing and exfoliating, it is important to keep your skin moisturized. Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizers, which are less likely to clog your pores. If your acne is persistent or severe, consider consulting a dermatologist, who can recommend prescription cleansers, ointments, or oral medications to help manage your symptoms.
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Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays
While acne is caused by clogged hair follicles, it can be influenced by both internal factors, such as genetics, age, and hormones, and external factors, such as cosmetic products and environmental factors. Environmental factors include air pollution, temperature, sun exposure, and weather conditions such as humidity.
Sun exposure can cause oxidative stress and damage to the skin, increasing the shedding of dead cells on the skin's surface. To protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, it is important to use sunscreen. Sunscreen protects the skin against sunburns and plays a crucial role in blocking the penetration of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, specifically ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. SPF indicates how much longer it will take for your skin to burn when wearing sunscreen compared to unprotected skin. A higher SPF provides greater protection against UV rays.
It is important to note that no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, and even with sunscreen, you can still get sunburned. Therefore, it is crucial to reapply sunscreen generously every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Additionally, seek shade when possible, especially during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat, can also help shield your skin from the sun.
By incorporating sunscreen into your skincare routine, you can help protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and reduce the negative impact of sun exposure, which is an external factor contributing to acne.
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Avoid using cosmetic products that may clog your pores
While acne is caused by clogged hair follicles, it can be influenced by several internal factors like genetics, age, hormones, and skin type. However, external factors, including the use of cosmetic products and environmental factors, can also affect your overall skin health.
To prevent acne, it is important to be mindful of the cosmetic products you use on your skin. Some products can clog your pores, leading to acne breakouts. Here are some tips to avoid using cosmetic products that may clog your pores:
- Choose non-comedogenic skincare and cosmetic products: Look for the terms "non-comedogenic,""non-acnegenic," or "won't clog pores" on the labels of your skincare and makeup products. These terms indicate that the products have been formulated without ingredients known to clog pores.
- Opt for lightweight, oil-free formulas: Heavy, oil-based creams and lotions can often clog pores. Instead, opt for lightweight, water-based or gel-based formulas that are labelled as "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic."
- Avoid using excessive products: Using too many products or layering on thick creams can increase the chances of clogging your pores. Simplify your skincare routine and allow your skin to breathe.
- Be cautious with hair products: Hair products such as oils, pomades, and styling creams can transfer to your face and clog pores. If you have acne-prone skin, opt for lighter hair products and avoid applying them too close to your hairline or scalp.
- Regularly clean your makeup brushes and sponges: Makeup tools can harbour bacteria and dirt, which can then transfer to your skin and clog pores. Wash your brushes and sponges regularly with mild soap and warm water, and allow them to air dry.
- Avoid sharing cosmetic products: Sharing makeup or skincare products can spread bacteria, increasing the risk of acne breakouts. It is best to avoid sharing products, especially those that come into direct contact with the skin, such as foundation or concealer.
By being mindful of the cosmetic products you use and following these simple tips, you can help prevent acne caused by clogged pores.
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Stay away from highly polluted areas to reduce exposure to pollutants
While it is impossible to completely avoid exposure to outdoor air pollution, there are several measures you can take to reduce it. Here are some ways to stay away from highly polluted areas and minimize your exposure to pollutants, especially if you are acne-prone:
- Limit your time outdoors in polluted areas: If you live or work in an area with high air pollution levels, try to minimize the amount of time you spend outdoors. Consider spending your leisure time in parks or green spaces with lower pollution levels.
- Avoid peak pollution times: Pay attention to air quality reports and try to avoid spending extended periods outdoors during times of peak pollution, such as rush hour or during industrial activities that may emit more pollutants into the atmosphere.
- Choose indoor activities: Opt for indoor activities, especially on days with high pollution levels. This could include working out at a gym or doing indoor hobbies and activities that interest you.
- Use appropriate protection: When you need to be outdoors, consider wearing a hat, sunglasses, and a mask designed to filter out particulate matter (PM). While cloth masks can provide some protection, specialized masks like N95 or KN95 masks are more effective at filtering out pollutants.
- Create a clean indoor environment: Ensure that the air quality in your home or workplace is as good as possible. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor air pollution and provide a respite from outdoor pollutants.
By taking these steps, you can effectively reduce your exposure to pollutants and potentially improve your acne condition. It is important to note that while staying away from highly polluted areas is beneficial, a combination of internal and external factors contributes to acne, so a holistic approach to skincare is recommended.
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Use a non-comedogenic moisturiser to prevent moisture loss and excess sebum production
Environmental pollution can cause a type of acne called chloracne, which is considered to be one of the most sensitive indicators of systemic poisoning by certain halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. It is characterised by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), cysts, and pustules.
To prevent acne caused by pollution, it is important to keep your skin clean and moisturised. Using a non-comedogenic moisturiser can help prevent moisture loss and excess sebum production. Non-comedogenic moisturisers are formulated without pore-clogging ingredients, which is important as clogged pores can exacerbate skin issues and worsen skin.
Non-comedogenic moisturisers are especially beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. They can help regulate sebum production and minimise overproduction, which can reduce breakouts when paired with acne-treating products. Ingredients to look out for include vitamin C, glycerin, and aloe vera, which are rated as non-comedogenic.
One recommended non-comedogenic moisturiser is the Outset Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer, which has a lightweight formula that soaks into the skin quickly without causing irritation or breakouts. Another option is the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream, which hydrates the skin while eliminating excess shine. This product contains silica and other powders to help absorb excess oil on the skin.
While non-comedogenic products can help reduce the effects and causes of acne, it is important to remember that everyone's skin is different and will react differently to different products. If any product causes irritation, it is recommended to stop using it and consult a professional for personalised advice.
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Frequently asked questions
Outdoor air pollution is an external factor that can trigger inflammation of the skin and acne occurrence. Environmental pollutants can also result in a variant of acne called chloracne.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, commonly found in air pollution, induce an inflammatory response in the skin. This can cause a lipid peroxidation cascade, stimulating the release of other proinflammatory mediators and establishing a vicious inflammatory cycle.
Chloracne, caused by pollution, is characterised by blackheads and whiteheads, cysts, and pustules. It is considered a sensitive indicator of systemic poisoning by halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons.
Using a gentle cleanser and exfoliating your skin can help prevent clogged follicles. Adding a non-comedogenic moisturiser to your routine can also help, as highly polluted environments can strip the skin of moisture, increasing sebum production.
Yes, in addition to pollution, weather conditions such as humidity and sun exposure can also contribute to acne. Sun exposure, in particular, causes oxidative stress and damage to the skin, increasing the shedding of dead skin cells.
