We are well aware that air pollution can affect health. Air pollution from traffic, haze, industrial chemicals and smoking are prevalent in highly urbanized societies such as Hong Kong, Beijing and Singapore. Air pollution is associated with lung and heart diseases, and has serious health implications and may be fatal in some instances. 

Recent scientific evidence has emerged that air pollution carrying toxic substances leads to skin damage. Air pollution from urban areas, includes numerous tiny particles known as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

A recent study in China found that traffic related air pollutions contributes to premature aging and skin pigmentation.¹ They discovered that chronic exposure to particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide increases age spots by 25%, even when there is a relatively small increase in the air pollution index. 

Another study of the impact of urban pollution on skin quality revealed an increase in oil (sebum) excretion, eczema and hives in the affected population.² Air pollution may lead to clogged pores and recurrent acne eruption, and increase the frequency of itchy skin conditions such as eczema and hives.

It is possible that these air pollutants causes skin irritation by triggering off a cascade of events that leads to inflammation and oxidative stress within the skin cells. Chronic exposure to air pollutants leads to chronic skin inflammation which ultimately manifest as acne, premature skin aging and skin pigmentation.