From illnesses to skin conditions, indoor air pollution contributes to severe issues for many. Learn the unfortunate consequences of poor indoor air quality.
Unfortunately and unsurprisingly, air pollution surrounds you and is a rampant force with potentially harmful effects on your overall well-being. Since the exposure is something you encounter on a daily basis, it’s safe to say that it is primarily out of your control.
Additionally, indoor air quality is something to consider when prioritizing your well-being. That said, here are the effects of indoor air quality on hair, skin, and health.
Hair Loss
Your hair is a protective barrier between your body and your environment. Extended exposure to poor air quality conditions can negatively impact your follicles and scalp health, resulting in “sensitive scalp syndrome.”
Someone with this condition would display symptoms such as pain at the roots of these tresses, followed by an itchy and prickling sensation on the scalp. You can also expect dandruff, itchiness, and inflammation, ultimately resulting in hair loss.
Skin Irritation
Your skin is your body’s first defense against harmful toxins and bacteria, making it subject to adverse reactions from being in direct contact with airborne contaminants. Your skin can also suffer when you inhale pollutants.
Upon inhalation, contaminants distribute throughout the body via blood circulation. The blood then moves into the tissue, affecting subsequent skin layers.
While the skin may be resilient, long-term exposure to poor indoor air quality conditions may result in disturbances in your skin’s metabolism, resulting in inflammation, oxidative stress, and premature aging.
Illnesses
Of course, a home environment containing mold, dust, and fungi is a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful particles that may affect your health.
Furthermore, you don’t want to forget about any existing gases, fumes, and chemicals comprising the quality of the air you breathe.
Many air pollutants thrive on poor ventilation and high temperatures, often making you ill.
Other Adverse Effects
Other adverse effects of long-term exposure to indoor air pollutants are the following:
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Allergies
• Coughing, wheezing, and sneezing
• Nausea
Among the myths and misconceptions about indoor air quality, it’s worth noting that long-term exposure to it can affect you in more ways than you would think. While the effects of indoor air quality on skin, hair, and health can impact your quality of life, there are ways to mitigate exposure in the long run.