Climate change has become a part of our daily lives, and its impact is felt in many aspects, including our skin health. Skin is the largest organ of the human body and serves as the main protector from the environment. Unfortunately, drastic changes in climate are affecting our skin in ways we never imagined! From extreme weather to air pollution, our skin is increasingly susceptible to damage. This article will discuss how climate change is affecting skin health and the steps we can take to protect ourselves. Stay tuned!
Why is skin vulnerable to climate change?
Human skin is very sensitive to environmental changes. This is because it acts as the main protective layer against external factors such as ultraviolet (UV) rays, air pollution and extreme weather. As the climate changes, the challenges for skin also increase. Hot, humid weather and air pollution can trigger various skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and premature aging.
The skin is not only the physical barrier of the body, but also an early indicator of any underlying health issues. When environmental conditions change, skin is often the first organ to show signs of damage. This makes skin a barometer for understanding how climate change is impacting overall health. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to changes in our skin!
Impact of Air Pollution on Skin
Before we get into the climate, it’s important to know that air pollution affects the skin too! Air pollution, which stems from the burning of fossil fuels, is one of the main causes of skin damage. Tiny particles of pollution can penetrate the epidermal layer of the skin and cause inflammation. Studies show that air pollution can worsen skin conditions such as eczema and contact dermatitis. Continued exposure to pollution can also increase the risk of skin cancer. Wow, how horrible is that?
6 Extreme Weather Changes and Their Effects on Skin
Extreme weather, such as forest fires and floods, often brings additional threats to skin health. When forest fires occur, the air is filled with smoke and harmful particles that can cause skin irritation, eczema and even trigger allergic conditions. Meanwhile, floods bring the risk of skin infections due to water contamination, as well as exposure to fungi and bacteria that can cause skin diseases. In addition, other impacts can include:
- Increased potential for acne due to allergy season
Climate change extends allergy season, which increases the amount of pollen in the air. This can trigger skin allergies and worsen conditions such as eczema. In addition, higher temperatures can cause excessive sweat and oil production, leading to increased cases of acne.
- Premature aging due to UV exposure
UV exposure from the sun has always been one of the main causes of premature aging. With the ozone layer that protects us from UV rays diminishing, the risk of skin damage is increasing. Skin that is frequently overexposed to UV rays will develop wrinkles, dark spots, and lose elasticity faster.
- Increased risk of skin cancer
Climate change, including increased UV exposure due to ozone layer depletion, also increases the risk of skin cancer. According to research, a 1 percent decrease in ozone thickness can increase the incidence of squamous cell carcinoma by 3 to 4.6 percent. In addition, air pollution containing carcinogenic particles also increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Risk of infection and mold
Floods caused by changes in rainfall patterns carry the risk of water contamination that can lead to various skin diseases. Water contamination with chemicals, bacteria and fungi during floods increases the risk of skin infections. In addition, after a flood, excessive mold growth in affected areas can also trigger skin irritation.
- Increased skin diseases due to infection
Climate change also increases the risk of skin diseases caused by bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. For example, Lyme disease caused by tick bites is now spreading to larger areas due to warmer winters. In addition, higher temperatures increase mosquito populations that can spread diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya.
How to Protect Skin in the Era of Climate Change?
What is the solution? To protect our skin from the effects of climate change, we need proactive measures. Here are some ways we can take care of our skin.
- Use sunscreen every day
Using sunscreen is the most effective way to protect your skin from UV rays. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it whenever outdoors, even on cloudy days. Reapplication every two hours is also important, especially when sweating or swimming.
- Protect yourself from air pollution
Always check the air quality before spending time outdoors. If air quality is poor, consider wearing a mask and keeping skin clean after exposure. Using an air filtration system in the home can also help reduce the impact of air pollution on the skin.
- Keep skin moisturized
Extreme weather often leads to skin dehydration. Make sure to use a moisturizer that suits your skin type and drink enough water throughout the day. Well-hydrated skin is better able to combat the adverse effects of pollution and extreme weather. Another way to keep your skin moisturized is to shower regularly with a gentle soap, followed by a post-shower lotion. Can’t decide on the right body care? You can try Serenitree‘s natural alternatives!
- Choose protective clothing
Apart from sunscreen, wearing protective clothing can also help protect your skin from the sun. Choose clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) and a wide-brimmed hat to provide extra protection.
In conclusion, climate change is definitely bringing new challenges to our skin health! From increased risk of skin cancer to skin conditions triggered by pollution and extreme weather. That’s why keeping our skin healthy has never been more important. By taking preventive measures such as using sunscreen, protecting ourselves from air pollution, and keeping our skin moisturized, we can minimize the negative impact of climate change on our skin. Let’s start taking care of our skin from now on Sereni-Trees!