After a long tiring day, the first thing we want to do is wash our makeup-laden face. The relief of washing away the dirt and oil is relaxing. Who doesn’t love squeaky clean skin? But little do we know that there is more in our skin than what meets the eye. Pollution not only affects our lungs but seeps deep into our skin, destroying it slowly. Many skin disorders such as eczema, premature aging, acne get triggered by micropollutants in the air. In fact, pollution can also result in skin cancer. A Bajaj Finserv Health card can safeguard a person from financial distress or treatment in such an event.
What does Air Pollution do to Your Skin
Pune has been facing a surge in air pollution in recent years despite its green cover around the city. According to a dermatologist in Pune, cases of premature are increasing amongst the youth. Air pollution is a significant factor that contributes to skin disorders. Pollutants such as volatile organic compounds, ultraviolet radiation, ozone, and smoke from cigarettes, factories, and cars induce oxidative stress in the skin. The mixture of these can be as micro as 2.5 microns, whereas pores on the skin are 70 microns. Thus, these compounds can quickly get into pores and damage their structure.
Skin Disorders due to Air pollution
Ozone is the most significant factor of air pollution and is the main reason behind several skin ailments. Here are a few skin damages directly related to this toxic gas.
Premature Aging
Skin aging has long been associated with air pollution. Many people come complaining to a dermatologist about looking older than their age even after due care. When tiny particles of harmful toxins enter our skin, it destroys the collagen-producing cells. Hence, we see visible lines, wrinkles, and dull skin.
Acne
Pollutants strip out the natural oils from our skin and seep into the pores clogging it. This results in an imbalance in the skin’s pH. With clogged pores, our skin produces excessive sebum to counteract the dryness. All the accumulated dirt results in inflammation that sprouts up like acne on our skin.
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the inflammation of the skin and is also known as eczema. Environmental triggers such as smoke and UV rays can worsen the condition. The main symptoms of eczema include itchy, scaly, dry, and cracked skin. In some cases, blistering can also happen. Nearly 10% of people with skin issues suffer from eczema daily.
Psoriasis
In psoriasis, skin cells turnover at a faster rate than average. It is an autoimmune condition in which the skin turns red with raised inflamed patches. Other symptoms include itching, blistering and severe pain around patches. Air pollution is one of the primary triggers for psoriasis flaring up.
Skin Cancer
The particulate matter and harmful UV rays are the major cause of skin cancer. The skin cells grow abnormally on the place heavily exposed to the sun. Treating skin cancer is an expensive affair that requires multiple doctor visits, testing, and heavy medication. For hassle-free payments, always choose a Bajaj Finserv Health card.
Ways To Prevent Skin Damage from Air Pollution
You can not control air pollution all alone, but you can definitely incorporate the following tips in your life for protecting your skin.
Hydrate
Drink ample amounts of water to safeguard your skin from the toxins in the air. This will automatically flush out the harmful particles that got absorbed through the air. It will also help in retaining moisture in the skin and fight the dryness caused by pollution.
Sunscreen
As discussed earlier, harmful UV rays can result in skin cancers. Hence, always remember to apply sunscreen. It does not matter whether you are outside or at home. The regular application protects your skin from minute particles in the air. Choose one with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Antioxidant Serum
Pollution breaks the immunity barrier of our skins and depletes natural oils and vitamins. Therefore, it is vital to incorporate a serum that has vitamin E, hexinol, and vitamin C. Serum gets absorbed better than a moisturizer. It creates a barrier that protects from free radicals.
Cleanse and Exfoliate
Choose a cleanser that has chemical exfoliants such as AHAs for ripping out pollutants gently without harming the skin. Also, look for salicylic acid in your face wash for keeping the nasty acne at bay. Use this cleanser with the help of a sonic cleansing brush.
Conclusion
Air pollution is an issue that will only increase in the coming years with more development. Hence, see a dermatologist in Pune early on to tackle any skin disorders effectively. Follow the tips religiously and slow down the damage due to air pollution in Pune.
