Air pollution in cold weather can impact your skin and hair severely. The toxic air not only impacts our lungs and throat, but it also damages the skin and hair. There has been an alarming rise in the number of OPD patients with a sudden onset of itching, dryness, redness and pigmentary changes in skin. The cold, dry air is full of polluted suspended particles, which can’t be dispersed due to low wind speeds during the winters. With the AQI in northern states hovering above 400, the advent of winters has made the scenario worse, leading to an uptick in skin and hair disorders.
These pollutants can enter the skin through direct accumulation on its surface or can be absorbed through hair follicles, inhalation or ingestion.
Air pollution can also cause oxidative stress. It can trigger and worsen conditions such as acne, psoriasis, atopic eczema, etc.
There can also be hair loss and many other skin and hair problems in this weather.
Keep your face and hair covered when stepping out. It creates a physical barrier.
protect your skin
Cleanse regularly. Cleansing the skin is critical because airborne pollutants can bind to the skin and weaken its barrier.
HAIR CARE
— The writer is a dermatologist, National Skin Hospital, Mansa Devi Complex, Panchkula
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