Just like the lungs and eyes, air pollution can also harm your skin. That’s right! Air pollution can significantly impact skin health. The chemicals, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone in polluted air penetrate deep into the skin's layers, causing harmful effects. Free radicals from air pollution can lead to premature aging, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, skin irritation, and burning sensations. These chemicals also disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, causing sensitivity, dryness, inflammation, redness, and rashes.

Pollutants can clog pores, exacerbating conditions like acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, and rosacea, which can cause significant distress. Prolonged exposure to air pollution may also result in hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and, in severe cases, contribute to the development of skin cancer. Air pollution affects all skin types, highlighting the urgent need for a dedicated skincare regimen to combat its harmful effects.

Stick to doctor-recommended skincare products for better protection. Cover your face and wear loose cotton clothing while traveling when air quality is poor. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, as advised by experts. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Ridhima Sachdeva, Consultant Plastic, Cosmetic, Reconstructive, Hand & Brachial Plexus Surgeon at Medicover Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, discussed the skin, health and lung complications caused by air pollution.

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Lung Complications Caused By Air Pollution

Lung complications due to air pollution are a significant concern, often disrupting overall well-being. Air pollution can cause several serious lung-related issues, including:

  1. Aggravation of asthma and chronic bronchitis
  2. Reduced lung function and capacity
  3. Development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  4. Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, including pneumonia
  5. Inflammation of lung tissue
  6. These effects are particularly severe for vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

What Are The Preventive Measures Should Be taken?

To prevent lung problems caused by air pollution:

  1. Wear a mask when venturing outdoors during poor air quality.
  2. Maintain good hand hygiene.
  3. Avoid outdoor exercise when air quality is bad.
  4. Use a humidifier at home.
  5. Keep doors and windows closed to prevent pollution from entering your living space.
  6. If you experience symptoms such as cough, wheezing, or breathlessness, consult a medical expert immediately. Individuals with asthma should exercise extra caution and always keep an inhaler handy.

By taking these measures, you can protect both your skin and lungs from the harmful effects of air pollution.