Delhi’s air quality has started deteriorating since Dussehra. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) this morning ordered the implementation of the second phase of the anti-pollution scheme GRAP. According to real-time data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the AQI at 8 am in Delhi was ‘very poor’, recorded at 317. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, 401 and 450 severe, and above 450 severe-plus.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, Delhi’s daily average AQI is expected to remain in the ‘very poor’ category in the coming days. Stubble burning in the neighboring states of Haryana and Punjab is one reason for the increase in pollution levels in Delhi, especially during the post-harvest season of October and November.

We all know well that air pollution increases the risk of respiratory problems. But do you know that air pollution not only affects the health of the lungs but also the skin, causing premature aging? Some of the pollutants present in the air include dust, smoke and other harmful gases which damage the outer layers of the skin. The range of effects of pollution on the skin can lead to dehydration, disruption of the skin microbiome, skin barrier damage, premature aging and even skin cancer. It can also cause worsening of existing skin conditions like acne, contact dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.

We contacted Dr. Ruben Bhasin Pasi, Consultant – Dermatology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, who explains that air pollution mostly affects collagen and elastin as they are the source of proteins, which keep the skin tough and elastic. . Due to this, wrinkles and loose lines start appearing on the body.

“Air pollution consists of tiny particles called particulate matter (PM). It will penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and cause inflammation, dark spots and a dull look. Dr. Reuben said, prolonged exposure to air pollution reduces the skin’s natural barrier, causing the skin to become dehydrated and irritated and showing signs of aging.

“Furthermore, their destructive effect increases when combined with polluted air and UV rays. This weakens your skin’s repair mechanism, which speeds up the aging process. To protect your skin from pollution, follow these steps: cleanse it thoroughly, apply antioxidant products, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to reduce the harmful effects of pollution. As a result, you’ll enjoy healthier, more youthful-looking skin,” Dr. Reuben added.

Get the latest news live on Times Now with breaking news and top headlines from around the world.