PM2.5 Fine Dust Poses Serious Skin Risks, Accelerates Premature Aging, Experts Warn

PM2.5 fine particulate matter poses significant risks to skin health, triggering inflammation and accelerating premature skin aging. Health experts advise the public to avoid scratching, maintain proper body hygiene, and seek medical advice if abnormal skin rashes occur.

PM2.5 particles are small enough to penetrate the skin directly through hair follicles and pores, carrying harmful chemicals that damage skin cells. Prolonged exposure can disrupt normal skin function, promote inflammation, and accelerate skin aging, leading to dark spots and wrinkles similar to the effects of excessive sun exposure.

Dr.Akarathan Jitnuyanont  Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, stated that the skin is the body’s primary organ exposed to environmental pollution, making it particularly vulnerable to airborne contaminants such as PM2.5.

Research indicates that PM2.5 can directly enter the skin through hair and sweat gland openings, or penetrate compromised skin barriers, such as in individuals with atopic dermatitis or other allergic skin conditions. In addition, PM2.5 particles can bind with chemicals and heavy metals, transporting them into the skin where they damage skin cells and interfere with protective and repair mechanisms, ultimately triggering inflammatory responses.

Dr. Weerawat Ukranan,  Director of the Institute of Dermatology, explained that long-term exposure to PM2.5 is a contributing factor to accelerated skin aging, alongside ultraviolet radiation and smoking. Such exposure increases facial hyperpigmentation and deepens wrinkles, particularly around the nasolabial folds.

PM2.5 affects the skin both in the short and long term, potentially causing itching, rashes, and flare-ups—especially in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema or allergic dermatitis. Minimizing direct skin exposure to PM2.5 is therefore essential.

Dr. Junjira Sawasdipong, a dermatology specialist at the Institute of Dermatology, added that PM2.5 is not only harmful to the respiratory system but also a “silent threat” to skin health. Fine particles can penetrate the skin, causing inflammation, itching, and exacerbation of existing skin diseases.

To protect the skin, experts recommend avoiding direct exposure to PM2.5 as much as possible. If skin irritation occurs after exposure, individuals should avoid scratching, friction, and other forms of irritation that may worsen symptoms. Gentle cleansers should be used for bathing, and moisturizers should be applied regularly. Antihistamines may help relieve itching when necessary.

The use of topical steroid medications to treat skin inflammation should be undertaken only under the supervision of a physician or pharmacist. If symptoms worsen or persist, individuals are advised to consult a dermatologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Source: www.thaihealth.or.th