As winter sets in and smog settles over Indian cities, most of us worry about our lungs. Little do we know that our skin takes a daily hit too! If your face has been feeling tight, flaky or itchy lately, the air around you may be to blame.
\n\n"Air pollution has an impact on more than just the lungs," says Dr Pushpa Gnanaraj, Senior Consultant Dermatology, Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Vanagaram, Chennai. "The skin is the first barrier of protection against pollutants in the atmosphere. Fine particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10, smoke, dust and harmful gases can settle on the surface of the skin and cause irritation and inflammation."
\n\nThe World Health Organization estimates that almost the entire global population breathes air that exceeds its safe limits. In India, the problem peaks in winter, when crop burning, firecrackers, vehicle fumes and still, cold air trap pollutants close to the ground. "People may notice worsening dryness, itching, redness or sensitivity, especially on days when air quality is poor," Dr Gnanaraj says. "Those with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions such as eczema are more vulnerable. With repeated exposure, the skin's natural protective barrier can also be compromised."
\n\nThe main culprit is PM2.5…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/delhi
