Danger from air pollution on skin health revealed

RECOGNIZING the lack of in-depth research on air pollution and skin health, Olay recently conducted a clinical study across the least and most polluted districts of Beijing. 

Collaboration between Olay scientists and Dr. Wei Liu, head of the Dermatology Department at the General Hospital of the Air Force, Beijing, demonstrated that concerns about air pollution are not just perception but reflected by real science. 

Multiple aspects of skin health and appearance of over 200 women were measured while recording their lifestyle and skin care routine choices. The detailed analysis showed for the first time that subjects living in the highly polluted district had significantly worse skin hydration than subjects living in the cleaner suburbs, despite making better lifestyle choices (such as cleansing routines, water consumption and greater skin care product usage). 

In addition, lower levels of important biomarkers indicating compromised skin barrier function were found in the urban subjects. 

While not wholly unexpected to see impaired skin condition linked to high air pollution, this study is the first to provide sound scientific evidence that skin barrier function and skin hydration are among the most immediate and significant threats air pollution imposes on the skin.

The team looked at the relationship between air quality and incidence of dermatological skin conditions among patients in Beijing over a year- long period, and revealed a clear correlation between spikes in air pollution and increases in the number of patients suffering from skin problems such as urticaria (hives). While further research is needed and underway, these results show that air pollution is not just affecting skin on a cosmetic level, but can pose a real threat to skin health, too.

Speaking on the study’s findings, Olay senior scientist Dr. Frauke Neuser said Olay’s commitment to working toward the next generation of pollution-focused skin care solutions couldn’t be timelier. 

“This evidence shows that it is vital for skincare today to incorporate pollution-fighting, skin-repairing ingredients. One of our essential ingredients, Niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3), is supported by over 15 years of data and published research that proves its ability to restore and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, while improving skin hydration and promoting skin surface exfoliation,” Dr. Neuser said.

Starting in January 2015, three newly formulated anti-aging moisturizers from Olay Total Effects will be available with a number of ingredients for environmental protection. These daily moisturizers have been formulated with 40% more vitamins (including Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative damage caused by environmental stressors) and the highest level of Niacinamide in an over-the-counter Olay skincare product.