Impact of Air Pollution on Skin Health and Inflammatory Skin Diseases: A Narrative Review

Background. Air pollution has become one of the most significant environmental threats to human health worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests that exposure to air pollutants may adversely affect skin homeostasis and contribute to the development or exacerbation of inflammatory skin diseases. Aim. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize current evidence regarding the relationship between air pollution and selected inflammatory skin diseases, particularly acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Material and methods. A narrative review of scientific literature published within the last ten years was conducted to evaluate the association between air pollution and inflammatory skin diseases. Results. Available evidence indicates that exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons may damage the skin through mechanisms including oxidative stress, disruption of the epidermal barrier, and activation of inflammatory pathways. Epidemiological studies suggest that higher air pollution levels are associated with increased incidence or severity of acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Conclusions. Air pollution appears to be an important environmental factor influencing skin health and inflammatory skin diseases. Further research is needed to clarify causal relationships and support development of preventive and therapeutic strategies.