AIR POLLUTION AND SKIN AGING
Scientists assessed the skin of 400 Caucasian women between the age of 70 and 80 years old. Using various scientific methods, they measured how much the #skin had #aged.
They then looked at where the women lived, and took measurements of traffic particle emissions. They also tested the dust in the homes, and analyzed it for soot and other pollutants. Finally, they tested so-called “background” pollution by measuring ambient particles at fixed monitoring sites.
They then examined the results of all their measurements, and determined the following:
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Air pollution exposure was significantly correlated to signs of #skin_aging, including #hyper_pigmentation, #age_spots, and #wrinkles.
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An increase in soot and particles from traffic was associated with 20 percent more age spots on the forehead and cheeks.
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Increased traffic particles were associated with a 16 percent increase in age spots on the forehead and 17 percent more on the cheeks.
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All types of #pollution were also found to be connected with a more pronounced nasolabial fold (#smile_wrinkles).
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Background pollution was associated with an increased risk of age spots.
The Journal of Dermatological Science some time ago also published an review on pollution and skin. They looked at research that has been conducted so far, collaborating with a board of experts on environmental health, and on clinical research in dermatology and cosmetic dermatology. They chose only studies that looked at the issue of the effects of pollution on skin, and found:
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Pollution-induced skin damage is a global problem
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Ozone depletes antioxidants from the skin
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Exposure to ambient particulate matter contributes to premature skin aging
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Air pollution is damaging to healthy and diseased skin
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Individuals with sensitive skin may be even more susceptible to pollution damage