The air around you can affect more than just your lungs. It can affect your skin, too. Whether it’s dry winter air, humid summer heat or pollution from traffic, your skin reacts to what’s in the air. Poor air quality can lead to dryness, irritation, breakouts and even flare-ups of skin conditions.
We spoke with Janna Assar, MD, a family physician with Banner Executive Health and Wellness, to understand more about how different air conditions can affect your skin and the steps you can take to keep it healthy year-round.
How different air conditions affect your skin
Your skin – the largest organ in your body – acts as a barrier between your body and the outside world. But when exposed to harmful particles in the air, it can become irritated, inflamed or damaged.
“Poor air quality exposes skin to pollutants like particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, ozone and heavy metals,” Dr. Assar said. “These can penetrate the skin barrier, leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, collagen breakdown and accelerated aging.”
However, different air conditions affect the skin in different ways.
Dry air (winter, deserts or air-conditioned spaces)
Dry air pulls moisture from the skin, leading to flaking, cracking and itchy skin.
“Conditions such as eczema (a form of atopic dermatitis) psoriasis and rosacea usually occur in dry/cold climates as dry air disrupts the skin barrier, causing such conditions to flare up,” Dr. Assar said.
Humid air (summer, coastal areas or rainy seasons)
Humid air can trap dirt and oil, increasing the risk of acne, fungal infections and heat rashes.
“Excess sweating is a breeding ground for bacteria in humid and hot climates,” Dr. Assar said. “Hot climates with increased UV exposure can also worsen hyperpigmentation and melasma.”
Pollution (city smog, wildfire smoke or industrial areas)
Pollution can clog pores and speed up skin aging due to harmful free radicals.
“Free radicals break down collagen and cause premature aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Assar said. “It can also trigger melanin production and worsen dark spots and chronic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.”
Some pollutants also contain carcinogens that may increase the risk of skin cancer over time.
Pollen and allergens (spring and fall seasons)
Seasonal pollen and allergens may trigger rashes, itching or flare-ups in people with sensitive skin.
How to protect your skin year-round
No matter where you live, you can take steps to keep your skin healthy and strong.
1. Keep skin clean
“Cleanse your skin daily to remove pollutants, but don’t over wash as this can strip away natural oils,” Dr. Assar said.
Use a gentle cleanser and consider double cleansing if you’ve been exposed to heavy pollution.
2. Moisturize regularly
Choose a moisturizer that fits your climate:
- Dry air: To lock in moisture, use a thick, hydrating cream with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
- Humid air: Go for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
- Polluted air: Look for serums or creams containing antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E and niacinamide, to fight free radicals and protect the skin.
“Moisturizers help restore the skin barrier, especially in dry, polluted environments,” Dr. Assar said.
3. Use sunscreen every day
“It’s so important to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ daily to shield against UV rays, which can damage the skin,” Dr. Assar advised.
Whether in the snow or on the go, sunscreen helps prevent hyperpigmentation and premature aging.
4. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, oranges and watermelon also helps.
5. Improve indoor air quality
Protect your skin at home by keeping the air clean:
- Use a humidifier in dry seasons to prevent skin from drying out.
- Run an air purifier to remove pollutants and allergens.
- Keep windows closed during high pollen or high-pollution days.
6. Wear protective clothing
Cover your skin with hats, long sleeves and sunglasses when outdoors. This helps shield your skin from pollutants, allergens and harsh weather.
7. Avoid harsh skincare
Don’t use harsh products that have sulfates, fragrances and alcohol-based products, as these can increase skin sensitivity and worsen skin conditions.
8. Stay ahead of allergies
When pollen counts are high, keep the windows of your house and car shut. Also, use a HEPA filter in your home. When you’ve spent time outdoors, rinse and change into clean clothes, especially before you sleep.
9. Manage skin conditions
- Eczema and psoriasis: “Use hydrating creams and topical steroids as needed for flare-ups,” Dr. Assar said. “Keep showers short and use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.”
- Rosacea: Avoid irritants like spicy foods, alcohol and extreme temperatures. “Use calming ingredients like centella asiatica and green tea,” Dr. Assar said.
- Acne and oily skin: Cleanse twice daily and use products with salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts.
- Hyperpigmentation: Avoid direct UV exposure, wear sunscreen daily and consider skincare ingredients like azelaic acid, kojic acid and tranexamic acid to reduce dark spots.
When to see your dermatologist
If your skin reacts badly to air quality or weather changes and over-the-counter (OTC) treatments don’t help, see a dermatologist or your health care provider.
“A provider can recommend prescription creams, allergy treatments or skincare routines tailored to your needs,” Dr. Assar said.
Takeaway
The air around you can affect not only your lungs but your skin as well. Whether you live in a dry desert, a humid city or a place with seasonal changes, taking the right steps can keep your skin healthy year-round. By cleansing, moisturizing, protecting and adjusting to the environment, you can minimize damage and keep your skin glowing. If you have questions or concerns about your skin, talk to a dermatologist or a Banner health specialist.
