How Does Air Pollution Cause Skin Aging? Review by Charma Clinic

Researchers have been sounding the alarm about the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation to the skin for decades. Air pollution has become a focus issue for those who fight for skin protection. New studies document the skin-irritating effects of polluted air. Recently published research has linked skin discolorations and wrinkles to breathing in polluted air. According to some researchers, it may be the principal cause of skin aging in polluted urban areas.

In this blog, Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, the best skin specialist in Bangalore, explains how air pollution causes skin ageing. He also gives important tips to protect skin from pollution and keep it glowing and beautiful. 

How Does Air Pollution Cause Skin Aging?

Prolonged or repeated exposure to high levels of these pollutants may have severely deleterious effects on the skin since the skin acts as a biological shield against pro-oxidative chemical and physical air pollutants. Air pollution, especially in populated cities like Bangalore, has been linked to skin cancer and other major health problems, including premature skin aging and inflammatory or allergic skin diseases.

Exposure to polluted air can have two effects on the skin, either directly, through the skin's absorption of air pollutants, or indirectly, through the lungs' absorption of particles that are then delivered to the skin via the blood.

Long-term skin exposure to urban air pollution activates mechanisms of cell detoxification, which can cause DNA and protein damage, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and lipid peroxidation, which in turn causes skin alterations like impaired barrier function, pigment spots, wrinkles, and decreased skin hydration. Several studies have found that prolonged exposure of the skin to air pollution increases oxidative stress, which in turn causes skin pigmentation abnormalities and the development of wrinkles.

Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, the best dermatologist in Bangalore, explains that ozone damages human skin by increasing oxidative damage, inducing AhR, and causing oxidative stress along with the loss of vitamins C and E (the two most important nutrients for youthful skin).

Constant exposure to cigarette smoke has also been linked to accelerated aging, especially on the face. Some of the most common signs of skin aging include wrinkles and fine lines, dullness, dark spots, sagging skin, grey hair, and discoloration.

Expert Tips to Protect Skin from Air Pollution

Different strategies for preventing skin deterioration due to exposure to air pollution have been suggested by numerous researchers. Avoiding contact with air contaminants should be the first and foremost priority. As the skin is constantly vulnerable to air pollution and UV rays, sunscreen is another measure to provide skin protection, hence reducing the likelihood of the onset of the oxidation process.

One can follow the below-mentioned tips to protect their skin. 

• Using a mild cleanser as cleansing can help minimize the number of contaminants and particulate matter on the skin.

• Avoid harsh soaps, as they can strip the skin of its protective oils.

• Use an anti-pollution lotion or serum once or twice a day after showering to protect the skin from environmental aggressors. Serums should be used before moisturizers.

• Use a moisturizer twice daily to keep the skin hydrated and healthy, thereby boosting its ability to act as a protective barrier.

• Regular use of a mineral sunscreen (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) should be the last step in the morning skincare routine because these ingredients are reflective and don't need to be absorbed into the skin to be effective. If using a chemical sunscreen, apply it before the moisturzer.

• In order to treat existing skin damage, Dr. Rajdeep Mysore recommends a chemical peel as it stimulates skin regeneration. In the long run, they can help the skin become thicker and better able to withstand the effects of the environment.

• It is important to include exfoliating in the regular skincare routine.

• Try to make regular physical activity, enough sleep, and a nutritious diet a top priority. This is because they help the skin's natural barrier function, which in turn improves the skin's overall health. All of these things speed up the metabolic process and aid the body in getting rid of harmful substances.

Medical Treatments for Skin Aging at Charma Clinic

To treat the signs of aging, Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, the best dermatologist in Bangalore offers some of the most effective anti-aging treatments. They help reduce the visible symptoms of skin ageing, like pigmentation, freckles, wrinkles, fine lines, patches, age spots, and many more. These include: 

• Chemical peels

• Dermal fillers 

• Phototherapy 

• Laser skin resurfacing 

• Dermal fillers

• Anti-wrinkle injections

In order to know more about skin and hair care tips, keep reading our content, and for treatment of any skin or hair-related concern, visit Dr. Rajdeep Mysore at Charma Clinic, Bangalore.