Air pollution and skin aging—you’ve heard about it, but it’s not that big of a deal, right?
Unfortunately, the more research we have on this connection, the more concerning it is.
Whether you live in a bustling city or a suburban area, exposure to pollutants like particulate matter can significantly accelerate the aging process of your skin.
We dive into the science of this connection and show you how you can make sure your skin stays protected from damaging elements in the air.
Air Pollution and Skin Aging: What is Particulate Matter?
Air pollution is a complex mix of gases, chemicals, and particulate matter that includes heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), ozone, and nitrogen dioxide, among others. Particulate matter (PM), specifically, has been identified as a major culprit in skin damage.
Imagine millions of tiny particles of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air. These particles typically come from three main sources:
- Combustion processes: Vehicles, power plants, and residential heating can all emit particulate matter through the combustion of fossil fuels (gasoline, diesel, coal, and wood).
- Industrial processes: Manufacturing, construction, mining, and agricultural activities can generate particulate matter through processes such as grinding, crushing, and materials handling.
- Natural sources: Dust and soil particles, sea salt aerosols, pollen, and volcanic ash are examples of natural sources of particulate matter.
Particulate matter comes in different sizes:
- PM10: These are particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or smaller. They are inhalable and can penetrate the respiratory system, reaching the lungs.
- 5: These are particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. They can penetrate more deeply into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
- Ultrafine particles: These are less than 0.1 micrometers in diameter and can penetrate deeply into the body.
Frequently inhaling particulate matter can lead to respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis, and reduced lung function. Exposure to fine particles can contribute to cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.
It is these smaller particles that may also damage the skin.
Air Pollution and Skin Aging: How Particulate Matter Causes Damage
Particulate matter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller can penetrate the outermost layer of the skin. Once there, it may trigger oxidative stress by generating free radicals. These highly reactive molecules cause damage to the cells in the skin, including the lipids, proteins, and DNA.
Oxidative stress also induces inflammation in the skin, which can lead to problems like acne while exacerbating conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
The presence of pollutants in the skin may increase the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), as well. These are enzymes that break down collagen and elastin in the skin. Increased MMP activity leads to the degradation of these important proteins, causing loss of skin elasticity and firmness.
Over time, repeated exposure to air pollution accelerates the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation, and sagging.
Air Pollution and Skin Aging: What the Research Shows
Several studies have provided compelling evidence of how air pollution contributes to premature skin aging:
Air-traffic pollution and skin aging: Research on 400 women aged 70-80 discovered that air pollution exposure was significantly related to signs of aging, in particular to age spots. An increase in soot and particles from traffic was associated with 20 percent more age spots on the forehead and cheeks.
How pollution damages skin: Researchers examined several studies and summarized the existing evidence that air pollution damages skin through oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of the skin barrier function.
MMPs: In a recent review, scientists presented a detailed overview of MMPs as a specific target for addressing skin aging. In addition to showing how MMPs damage skin, they also looked at potential MMP inhibitors, which included essential oils.
Air pollution effects have increased: In another recent study, scientists noted that the effects of air pollution on human health have increased, including its effect on skin. They also discussed various methods by which these effects can be reduced.
Air pollution and skin disorders: Scientists found that air pollution is a risk factor for skin disorders like acne, hyperpigmentation, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Air Pollution and Skin Aging: How to Protect Your Skin!
Fortunately, there are several steps we can take to protect the skin from pollution-induced damage.
Daily Cleansing Routine
Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser to remove pollutants, dirt, and makeup. This prevents the accumulation of particles that can penetrate the skin.
Avoid Peak Pollution Times
Be mindful of those times when air pollution is likely to be high, such as during rush-hour traffic or when wildfires are nearby. Check local air quality measurements and plan accordingly.
Use Air Purifiers Indoors
You can improve the air quality inside your home by using HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. These filters can theoretically remove at least 99.97 percent of any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns, which can include dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria.
Use Sunscreen
Studies show that when the skin is exposed to air pollution and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun simultaneously, the two together can cause more damage than either one alone. Wearing a safe sunscreen like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can help protect against sun exposure, which can decrease the possibility of this reaction.
Practice Daily Skin Care
Having a daily skin care regimen that includes washing, toning, and moisturizing can help shore up your skin’s outer barrier so it can better protect you from the effects of pollution. Be sure to use gentle products and not to stress the skin with chemical or harsh ingredients.
Keep Your Skin Moisturized
A well-moisturized skin barrier is better equipped to defend against pollutants and maintain its integrity. Skin that is dry and cracked has more tiny openings in the barrier where air pollutants can enter and cause havoc. Regular moisturization not only supports the skin’s natural barrier function but helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by pollutants.
Our Calming Moisture and Body Repair Lotion not only moisturize the skin but contain ingredients that help calm inflammation and heal the skin barrier. On top of that, they contain antioxidants and ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and squalane that help restore the skin barrier, guard against environmental aggressors, and help prevent premature aging.
Use More Antioxidants
Antioxidants in our diet and our skincare products help neutralize free radicals. That means even if your skin is exposed to air pollution, if you have enough antioxidants around, they can help prevent the damage that pollution may cause.
The first step is to eat more foods that are rich in antioxidants. These supply the skin with important nutrients from the inside out. Colorful fruits and vegetables as well as green and black tea are great sources.
Next, use skincare products containing antioxidants. All of our CV Skinlabs products have antioxidants like the powerful reishi mushroom and turmeric, both of which help protect the skin from the effects of pollution and go the extra mile to fight free radical damage.
It’s Not About Vanity, It’s About Health!
Protecting your skin from air pollution is not just about vanity—it’s about maintaining your overall skin health and reducing the risk of premature aging. Implementing a daily skincare routine and staying informed about your local air quality can help you enjoy smooth, youthful-looking skin no matter where you live.
Have you noticed how air pollution can affect your skin?
Featured image by Hernan Sanchez via Unsplash.
