Skin under siege: How to protect our skin from pollution

In a world where technological progress comes with a hidden cost - pollution- we need to be more careful about how we protect our skin, that fragile barrier between us and the environment.

Beyond the visible effects on the environment, there is a silent war going on right on the surface of our skin. Fine particles, toxic gases and heavy metals in polluted air seep in imperceptibly, causing damage that we only notice over time: wrinkles, spots, irritation and skin fatigue.

The Elytis Hospitalwe believe in a proactive approach to skin health. Our team of dermatologists experienced dermatologists use state-of-the-art technology and a personalized approach to help you protect your skin from environmental aggressions and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion.

Let's discover together how we can fight back against pollution and turn our skincare routine into a protective shield for your skin!

I. Pollution: an invisible enemy at the gates of the skin

Imagine an invisible army attacking your skin's protective barrier every day. The fine particles, like tiny dust particles, settle on the skin and penetrate deep, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. Exhaust gases, with their aggressive nitrogen oxides, suffocate the skin, depriving it of vital oxygen. Heavy metals such as lead and mercury build up insidiously, leaving stains and irritation.

These microscopic attacks leave visible marks over time:

• Wrinkles and loss of elasticity: Collagen and elastin, the proteins that give skin firmness and elasticity, are damaged by free radicals generated by pollution.
• Dehydration and tired complexion: Skin becomes dry, rough and dull, looking like a wilted flower.
• Irritation and increased sensitivity: the skin's protective barrier is weakened, leaving it vulnerable to bacteria, allergens and other irritants.
• Acne and pigmentation spots: Pollution can aggravate existing acne or cause new lesions to appear. It can also stimulate melanin production, leading to pigmentation spots and melasma.

II. Protective shield: How to protect your skin from pollution

Fortunately, we are not powerless in the face of pollution. We can build a protective shield for our skin by adopting a proper skincare routine and making conscious lifestyle choices.

Here are some key strategies:

• Meticulous cleansing: In the morning and evening, cleanse your complexion with a gentle product tailored to your skin type to remove impurities that have built up throughout the day.
• Intensive moisturizing: Well-moisturized skin is more resistant to external aggressions. Apply a moisturizer in the morning and evening, and don't forget antioxidant serums that protect the skin from oxidative stress.
• Daily sun protection: UV rays amplify the negative effects of pollution. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days.
• Antioxidants: These precious compounds neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from damage. Include antioxidant-rich foods in your diet and choose cosmetics that contain vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid or resveratrol.
• Exfoliate regularly: Once or twice a week, exfoliate skin with a gentle product to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell regeneration.
• Balanced diet and hydration: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and water is essential for skin health.

III. Elytis Hospital: your partner for healthy skin

The Elytis Hospitalyou can find a team of dermatologists team dedicated to the health and beauty of your skin. We use state-of-the-art technology and a personalized approach to provide effective solutions for a wide range of dermatological conditions.

Our services include:

• Dermatologic consultations: Assess skin health and establish a personalized treatment plan.
• Treatment of skin conditions: acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, fungal and bacterial infections.
• Skin cancer prevention: Regular examinations, dermatoscopy and videodermatoscopy.
• Aesthetic procedures: chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, hyaluronic acid and botulinum toxin injections.
• Hair and nail care: treating alopecia, nail fungus and other conditions.

Don't let pollution steal your glow! Invest in your skin health and schedule a consultation at Elytis Hospital.

Latest medical review:

13.02.2025, Dr. Mădălina Iosip-Bejan - Medical Specialist

References:

• Araviiskaia, E., et. al. "The impact of airborne pollution on skin". Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2019, vol. 33, no. 8, pg. 1496 - 1505.
• Puri, Poonam, et. al. "Effects of air pollution on the skin: A review". Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2017, vol. 83, pg. 415 - 423.
• Roberts, Wendy (Dr.), "Air pollution and skin disorders". International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 2021, vol. 7, no. 1, pg. 91 - 97.
• Schikowski, Tamara, Hüls, Anke. "Air Pollution and Skin Aging." Current Environmental Health Reports, 2020, vol. 7, pg. 58 - 64.