Wrinkles, acne, and more! Experts share tips on how to fight skin damage triggered by rising air pollution

Did you also wake up with a layer of hazy, toxic air around you? Well, it is that time of the year again when the air in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) becomes a suffocating blanket of smog.

On Tuesday morning, residents of the national capital woke up to thick, toxic air with dropped visibility, and the familiar, acrid smell filled the atmosphere around them. The AQI level in Delhi stood at around 359 on Tuesday, as per the data of aqi.in

With the soaring pollution levels, Delhi faces another challenging winter ahead when millions are affected and there is a sudden jump in respiratory illnesses. But that¡¯s not all; air pollution is not just a threat to respiratory health; it is also taking a serious toll on skin health.

Air pollution and its impact on skin health

Every year, during November, the city is engulfed with a cloud of thick smog, laden with harmful particulate matter (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other toxins and pollutants that have a profound effect on the skin, leading to a huge range of problems, from premature ageing to acute skin diseases.

Pollution significantly damages skin health, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and dehydration. Key risk factors include particulate matter (PM), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

¡°These pollutants penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature ageing, wrinkles, skin discolouration, acne, and increased skin cancer risk. Short-term exposure causes redness, irritation, dryness, and sensitivity, while long-term exposure results in loss of skin elasticity, enlarged pores, and skin damage,¡± explains Dr. Rashmi Sriram, Consultant- Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Rajaji Nagar.

According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, the increase in air pollution over the years has created a major impact on human skin cells. The ultraviolet radiation, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, oxides, particulate matter, ozone, and cigarette smoke directly impact the outermost barrier of the skin.

Prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and acne

The air pollutants also tend to damage the skin by inducing oxidative stress. The higher level of oxidative stress can lead to wrinkles and fine lines, even as the human skin acts as a biological shield against pro-oxidative chemicals present in the air.

However, experts warn that prolonged exposure to air pollution can weaken the protective layer of the skin, making it more vulnerable to environmental toxins, allergens, and infections.

Dr. Rashmi Aderao, MBBS, MD Dermatology, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, says, ¡°The toxic air pollutants tend to deposit on the skin that clogs the skin pores, which can lead to acne problems. Additionally, people with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne may experience a worsening condition of their allergies. Apart from this, the ageing of the skin escalates with a rise in pollution levels.¡±

¡°In worse cases, it can even contribute to pigmentation problems, including dark spots, uneven skin tones, and higher production of melanin,¡± she adds.

Expert-approved tips to protect your skin amid rising air pollution

Sunscreen is a must: To stay protected, use a daily sunscreen with SPF 30+, highlights Dr. Sriram. He urges the use of antioxidant-rich skincare products, moisturisers, and face masks.

Use air purifiers: Reduce indoor pollution with air purifiers and adopt healthy lifestyle choices. Try to indulge in indoor physical activities regularly so that your lungs are protected.

Avoid stepping out until required: Prevent pollution damage by avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and supporting pollution-reducing initiatives.

Eat clean to combat pollution: According to Dr. Sriram, you can combat pollution through a diet with antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens), omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts), vitamin C-rich foods (citrus fruits, bell peppers), probiotic-rich foods (yoghurt, kimchi), and adequate hydration.

By taking these measures, you can mitigate the harmful effects of pollution on your skin health.

With pollution taking a toll on our skin, how do you take care of your skin health? Let us know in the comment section below.

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