[Effects of particulate matter pollution on human skin]

Particulate matter (PM) is recognized as a relevant environmental factor affecting overall heath. Growing evidence suggests that PM also impacts skin health. In addition, PM may accelerate skin aging through inflammatory processes and oxidative stress.

This review summarizes the adverse effects of PM on the skin, relevant exposure routes, and associated skin disorders.

Current population-based studies, experimental in vitro and in vivo investigations and review articles examining the effects of PM on the skin were evaluated. Database searches (PubMed and Google Scholar) used the following keywords: particulate matter, oxidative stress, skin damage, skin diseases, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin aging.

PM triggers oxidative stress, promotes the release of proinflammatory cytokines, disrupts the skin barrier, and modulates immune responses. Collectively, these mechanisms contribute to the development or exacerbation of inflammatory skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis and accelerate extrinsic skin aging. These effects can be influenced by other environmental factors and genetic predisposition.

Current evidence suggests that PM may have a potential impact on skin disorders and premature skin aging. Dermatologists should consider exposure risks and preventive strategies. Future research should increasingly focus on long-term effects, interactions with environmental factors, and robust population-based studies (e.g., intervention studies) to better understand these relationships.