Urban defense: The hidden skin-threats of pollution

What is environmental pollution?

 

The term environmental pollution covers a range of harmful substances that infiltrate the environment surrounding us. This can include harmful gases or chemicals from industrial processes, which can negatively impact ecosystems, the climate, our general health, and, as is the focus of this blogpost, our skin. These particles can stem from various sources, such as soil, air, and water – and airborne particles, in particular, can affect our skin. Some pollution organisms can even penetrate so deep within the skin that they can negatively impact their natural processes.

Types of skin damage caused by pollution

The skin is directly exposed to environmental pollutants through various pathways: pollutants in the air can settle on the skin, leading to direct contact with harmful chemicals and particulate matter. Some pollutants can penetrate the skin’s outer layers and enter deeper tissues or even the bloodstream.

Oxidative stress and free radicals

Pollution can lead to the formation of free radicals, highly reactive molecules that damage skin cells. This can lead to oxidative stress: a condition characterized by an imbalance between the presence of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants.

This oxidative stress can result in the skin accelerating its aging process, leading to premature aging signs such as fine lines, wrinkles, as well as loss of skin elasticity, due to damage to collagen and elastin. Hyperpigmentation, characterized by dark spots and uneven skin tone, also develops as a response to cellular damage. Additionally, excess exposure can lead to inflammation, contributing to conditions like dryness, breakouts, and other skin concerns.

Barrier function impairment

The skin’s barrier function is crucial for maintaining hydration and protecting against pathogens. Pollutants can weaken this barrier, causing dehydration, which disrupts the skin’s lipid layer (the outermost layer of skin), leading to dryness and flakiness. Furthermore, a compromised barrier increases skin sensitivity, making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens, and even permanent conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Direct cellular damage

Some pollutants, such as heavy metals, can cause direct cellular toxicity. This leads to cell death, resulting in loss of skin structure and function, and can even go as far as DNA damage, increasing the risk of skin cancers and other skin conditions.

Microbiome disruption

The skin’s microbiome, a community of hardworking, beneficial microorganisms, helps protect against pathogens (organisms that cause disease). Pollution can disturb this balance, leading to infections and increasing the risk of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, as well as exacerbating existing skin conditions.

UV radiation effects

While not a traditional pollutant, UV radiation is a significant environmental factor that can be exacerbated by pollution. Also, over-exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to sunburn and long-term risk of developing skin cancers while possibly enhancing the harmful effects of pollutants on the skin. Therefore, it’s also important to be aware of when out and about.

Protecting your skin from environmental pollution: Simple yet vital steps

Limiting our exposure to environmental pollution is somewhat near impossible. However, there’re holistic steps that we can take to keep our skin as protected and resilient as possible.

Cleanse the day away

Incorporating a daily cleansing ritual is crucial, as this procedure helps remove pollutants, dirt, and excess oils that can clog pores and cause irritation. In other words, cleansing prevents the accumulation of harmful substances that lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and premature aging signs, preserving its barrier function. Use gentle cleansers that effectively remove dirt and pollutants without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

Double cleansing, especially important in polluted environments or during summer, as more outdoor activity is warranted, involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one to ensure all pollutants are removed when the day is over.

For at gentle double cleansing ritual, we recommend: Cleansing Balm + Daily Foaming Cleanser 

Dodge dehydration with deep-diving actives

Maintaining skin hydration is essential to counteract the drying effects of pollutants. Use moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated and strengthen the barrier. Barrier repair creams containing ceramides and niacinamide can also help support the skin’s natural defense mechanisms.

For hydration and barrier repair, we recommend our on-the-go hydrator: Niacinamide Lifting Mist.

All-around protection

Incorporate products rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E to neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative damage. Also, daily use of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen is vital to protect against UV radiation. Together, antioxidants and SPF make the perfect, protective pair against extraneous threats. Ideally, you should reapply your SPF every two hours when exposed to the sun to maintain protection. 

For antioxidant protection, we recommend: Vitamin E Serum

You can read more about the benefits of antioxidant protection in our blogpost The power of antioxidants in skincare: The secrets to radiant skin.

Lifestyle tweaks that can impact your skin

A diet rich in antioxidants can help counteract oxidative stress. Foods like berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables are nutrient-rich and efficient at supporting skin health. Additionally, drinking plenty of water ensures that your skin stays hydrated from within.

It also goes without saying that smoking introduces additional pollutants and toxins into your body that can accelerate skin aging and damage. Quitting smoking can, therefore, significantly improve your skin’s health and appearance.

All in all, by understanding how pollutants affect our skin, and taking proactive steps to protect it, we can maintain healthier, more resilient skin. Stay informed, stay protected, and take action to preserve your skin, as it’s your first defense against environmental hazards, making it essential for your overall well-being.

Sources

• Roberts, W. (2021) Air pollution and skin disorders, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, International Journal of Women’s Dermatology.
• Bocheva, G.; Slominski, R. M.; Slominski, A. T. (2023) Environmental Air Pollutants Affecting Skin Functions with Systemic Implications, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, International Journal of Molecular Sciences.