When we think about climate change, melting ice hats, rising levels of sea and images of extreme weather often come to mind. But there is a more individual – and often this global issue is noted: your skin. Yes, the largest part of your body is quietly the brunt of a changing climate. From increased UV radiation to humidity, climate change is affecting skin health by subtle but important methods.
Rising temperature and skin conditions
The global temperature has risen continuously in the last century, and with them, the heat related skin issues are increasing. Prolonged contact for high temperatures can increase conditions:
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- Summer rashes and urticaries: Sweating ducts can be blocked, causing irritation and swelling.
- Rosacea and Eczema: These conditions are often extended by environmental stresses such as heat and pollution.
- Acne: Increasing sweating can close the pores and deteriorate, especially in humid climate.
UV radiation: silent aggressive
As the ozone layer, more ultraviolet (UV) rays are reaching the surface of the Earth. This intensity of UV exposure intensifies:
- Skin aging: UV radiation breaks collagen, causing damage to premature wrinkles, sunspots and elasticity.
- skin cancer: High UV exposure increases the risk of all forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, one of the most deadly types.
- Photosensity: Some drugs and skincare products can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, reducing risks.
Air pollution and free radicals
Industrial emissions, vehicles exit, and wildfire smoke are some examples of water pollution sources that are increased by climate change. These pollutants are rich in free radicals, unstable molecules that harm skin cells, contribute:
- Dull and uneven tone
- hyperpigmentation
- Chronic inflammation
Fine particulate matter can enter the skin deeply, disrupt skin obstruction and trigger or deteriorates psoriasis and dermatitis.
Water tension: very or very little
Climate change is receiving more intense droughts in some areas and heavy rains in others. These water affects skin hydration in extremely surprising ways:
- Dry and dry climate: low humidity strips moisture skin, leading to increase in dryness, layering and sensitivity.
- Flood, humid environment: Continuous moisture can spoil the skin obstruction and promote bacterial and fungal infections.
Allergies and sensitivity
Climate change also affects pollen production, with prolonged growing weather and counting of high pollen. This can accelerate allergic reactions, including skin allergies such as contact dermatitis, which manifests in redness, itching, and inflammation. Additionally, climate-induced changes in flora and organisms bring humans to new allergies, irritability, and even mosquitoes such as mosquitoes-indication of new skin challenges.
What can you do: protect your skin in a changing climate
Despite looming dangers, you are not powerless. Here is how to keep your skin flexible:
- Use broad-spectrum SPF every day, even when it is cloud. If you are outside then apply again every 2 hours.
- Purify the pollutants and dirt completely, especially if you live in an urban area.
- Hydrate and moisturizes to maintain a strong skin barrier – look for products with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinmide.
- Wear protective clothes such as wide-creed hats and UV-fierce sunglasses.
- If you are in a high-pollution area or forest fire area, invest in air purifiers.
- Consult a dermatologist if you notice abnormal changes in your skin or if you are suffering from chronic skin issues.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)