What Is the Link Between Air Pollution and Eczema?
How Air Pollution Can Effect Your Skin + Health
Pollution has been found to have detrimental effects on human health. Long-term exposure to pollutants can cause a wide range of health problems, from mild symptoms such as headaches, coughing, and skin irritation, to more serious conditions such as cancer, heart and lung diseases, and respiratory illness. Research has found a link between air pollution and an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and lung cancer. Pollutants can also be toxic to reproductive health, as well as cause cognitive and neurological deficits in infants and young children. Pollution can also have a negative effect on mental health, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and lowered self-esteem.
Long-term exposure to pollutants can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and even breakouts. It can also cause dryness and inflammation, making it difficult to fight off bacteria or viruses. In the worst cases, skin pollution can cause long-term damage and even long-term health issues.
Can Pollution Worsen Eczema Symptoms?
Recent studies have found a connection between air pollution and inflammatory conditions, such as eczema.
The higher pollution levels found in larger cities lead to the air being full of free radicals, which can cause damage to your skin. Even if you don’t live in the city, modern life can generate this matter through everyday items such as photocopiers.
The particles found in unclean, polluted air can damage the skin’s DNA, accelerate aging, and worsen eczema flare-ups.
How can you protect your skin from the effects of pollution?
Antioxidant Foods- Eat a balanced diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables to provide your skin with the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health.
Vitamin C Serums- Vitamin C Serums enrich your skin with vitamins, whilst boosting the protection offered by your SPF.
Antioxidant-Rich Creams or Oils- Use an antioxidant-rich moisturiser to help protect skin from environmental stressors and reduce inflammation.
Cleansing- Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. This will help remove any pollutants that have settled on your skin throughout the day and help to keep your skin's barrier strong.
Remember SPF- Wear sunscreen every day to protect against damaging UV rays. Choose a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and reapply as needed throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and flush out any toxins that may have made their way into your body.
Quit Smoking- Avoid smoking, which can dehydrate skin and increase the aging process.