Pollution is defined as the contamination of the earth’s environment with substances that adversely affect human health, quality of life or the natural functioning of the ecosystem. The World Health Organisation defines air pollution as the contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that alters the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.
We are exposed to air pollutants that have significant effects on our skin. The skin, as the largest and outermost organ of the body, acts as a physical, chemical, and immunological barrier against environmental factors. When prolonged and repeated exposure to environmental stressors exceeds the skin’s normal defense potential, there is a disruption in the skin’s barrier function leading to the development of various skin diseases.