Pollution has become a major problem these days. Polluted air harms our precious health in unimaginable ways. Do you know which organ is the first target of air pollution? Yes, it is your skin. It is supposed to act as a barrier. However, it is the organ that is exposed the most to pollutants. Prolonged exposure causes irreparable damage to your precious skin. Are you taking proper care of it? Do not hesitate to visit a dermatologist in Delhi if you face any skin problems.
What Are The Pollutants That Damage The Skin?
Well, the list is endless. It is we humans who are adding innumerable pollutants to the air. So, who do you think will have to bear the consequences?
Here are some air pollutants that are dangerous for your skin.
● Cigarette smoke. Are you a smoker? Your skin will age faster then. Even if you do not smoke, your skin gets exposed to passive cigarette smoke. It causes unimaginable damage to your most valued organ.
● Emissions from trucks and vehicles. How will you avoid it? Whenever you go out, your skin gets exposed to harmful gases emitted by different vehicles. If you live in a busy city, you can never escape it.
● Suspended Particulate Matter or SPM. You might think that gases and smoke are the only enemies of your skin. However, there is something even more harmful. There are millions of minute particles suspended in the air. What if they settle down on your skin? Do you think a wash will be enough to do away with them? It is not that easy. Your skin has many pores. These particles often get trapped in these openings. When these pores get clogged, bacteria there develops and leads to infections.
● Smog. If you are a city dweller, you must have seen a thick cover of smoke in the air. It is actually a mixture of smoke and fog. Smog also causes a lot of damage to your skin.
Effects Of Air Pollution On Your Skin
1. Pimples
These red itchy bumps on your face are dreaded by all. When your pores get clogged by various particles and oil, bacteria develops there and leads to an infection. They can often be irritating and painful. Earlier pimples occur in teenagers due to the increased production of oil by their sebaceous glands. However, thanks to air pollution, even older people get pimples. Consult a dermatologist in Delhi if they do not heal on their own.
2. Wrinkles.
They are the signs of aging. But how can you explain the wrinkled skin of a 30 year old? Yes, air pollution is the culprit. Various pollutants and harmful gases present in the air causes oxidative stress on your skin. It makes your precious skin look older.
3. Dryness and Irritation.
Does your skin feel itchy when you are travelling? The dirt, dust, smoke, and other harmful gases present in the air rob the skin of its natural moisture content, making it dry. Thus your skin starts itching badly.
4. Brown spots.
Are dark spots on your skin taking away your night’s sleep? Are they robbing the skin of its natural beauty? Nitrogen Dioxide present in the air makes your skin age prematurely. It leads to oxidative stress and irregular pigmentation. Now you know the culprit behind all those brown spots.
How To Protect Your Skin From Air Pollution?
- Wash your face with a face wash whenever you return from outside. There is no alternative to washing. Do not just wash with water. Make sure you use a good quality cleanser. It will remove all the dirt, dust, and excess oil on your skin.
- Moisturise your skin. Use a decent moisturiser, Exposure to pollution dehydrates your skin, making it dry and itchy. Ensure that it stays hydrated throughout the day. Drink enough water. Eat a healthy diet that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables.
- Try to reduce exposure to dust and other pollutants. If possible, cover your face when you go to areas with too much dust. You can also use an anti-pollution mask. A sunscreen will provide protection against harmful UV rays.
- Get a Bajaj Finserv health card. It will suggest you the best dermatologists and will also let you pay for your treatment in easy instalments.
The Bottom Line
You are aware of the other health problems caused by air. However, your skin often gets ignored. It is the easiest target of air pollution. Do you want your skin to look older than you are? Of course not. So, you must take good care of it. If you live in a metro, you need to save your skin from the evil effects of pollution. Follow your skin care routine diligently and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Never hesitate to see a dermatologist if the problem becomes too severe.
