What is photopollution and how does it affect skin?
Defined as a combination of UV rays and air pollution, photopollution is a relatively new discovery in the world of skincare research. Its effects are not well known, but initial studies suggest that these two skin-influencing factors do more damage when working together.
No clinical study exists revealing specific symptoms associated uniquely with photopollution.
However, researchers have discovered intriguing links between the presence of UV rays and elevated levels of pollution associated with an urban environment. Research on reconstructed skin has demonstrated that pollution accentuates and worsens damage linked to UV overexposure.[1]
Results of studies conducted on skin cells found that cells exposed to pollution particles before being exposed to a typical dose of UVA rays[2] suffered from increased oxidative stress, as well as mitochondrial damage.
What’s more, some UV-related disorders seem to be more severe and/or more prevalent in pollution urban environments, such as glabella and pigmentary disorders, although this has yet to be definitively proven. This makes it crucial for those of us living in the city to protect our skin is protected from both these external elements.
No clinical study exists revealing specific symptoms associated uniquely with photopollution.
However, researchers have discovered intriguing links between the presence of UV rays and elevated levels of pollution associated with an urban environment. Research on reconstructed skin has demonstrated that pollution accentuates and worsens damage linked to UV overexposure.[1]
Results of studies conducted on skin cells found that cells exposed to pollution particles before being exposed to a typical dose of UVA rays[2] suffered from increased oxidative stress, as well as mitochondrial damage.
What’s more, some UV-related disorders seem to be more severe and/or more prevalent in pollution urban environments, such as glabella and pigmentary disorders, although this has yet to be definitively proven. This makes it crucial for those of us living in the city to protect our skin is protected from both these external elements.
