In the wake of such immeasurable lossremembering to wear moisturizer while a wildfire rages may seem. . . trivial. Yet the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have shown California communities how meaningful (and complex) self care may be in the wake of the climate catastrophe. Health concerns surrounding wildfire smoke, air quality, polluted water and even stress have created an alarming number of potential effects that are just beginning to unfold.
It comes as no surprise that our skin, as the largest organ in our body, can be particularly sensitive to wildfire toxins. “Mounting evidence suggests that wildfires, increasing in intensity and frequency, contribute to skin problems, including dry skin or eczema flares. They can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin,” says dermatologist Tracy Evans, MD, MPH.
Thankfully, there are concrete steps you can take to support your skin’s well-being and provide a much-needed sense of control in times of chaos. If you have found yourself worrying exposure to wildfire smokewe reached out to two dermatologists to provide clarity and guidance on how to protect yourself and your skin.
Experts featured in this story
Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH, is a dual board certified dermatologist and founder of Batra Dermatology in Santa Monica, CA.
Tracy Evans, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology based in San Francisco, CA.
How forest fire smoke affects skin health
One of the most critical aspects of navigating skin health is understanding the role of our environment in overall health—and in the toxic conditions of a wildfire, that becomes important. “The function of the skin as an organ is to function as one Barrier against the outside world,” says Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. “The extreme lack of humidity during forest fires creates cracks and fissures in the outer layer of the skin. These openings in the skin’s seal make it more sensitive to irritants and infections.”
In general, the effects of fire smoke ultimately depend on the levels and duration of exposure and any pre-existing skin conditions. “Short-term exposure leads to short-term problems, but even short-term exposure can result in a flare-up of eczema that can last for many weeks or months if not controlled and treated appropriately,” says Dr. Evans, emphasizing the benefit. of quick action if you experience inflammation.
However, long-term exposure can be much more insidious. “Pollution carried by fire smoke causes free radicals that damage lipids, proteins and DNA in skin cells leading to premature aging of the skin,” says Dr Batra. The lasting complications of this damage can lead to hyperpigmentation, accelerated collagen breakdown and even skin cancer. It’s an alarming realization, but not without an approach.
How to protect the skin from fire smoke
First things first, try not to panic. Understandably, a stress reaction is inevitable in a wildfire zone (how could it not be), but either way you can help reduce cortisol levels can help with your skin’s reparative process. “The severe emotional toll of the wildfires is causing the flare-up of many pre-existing conditions that were previously well controlled,” says Dr Batra.
And while it may be tempting to reach for sugary, processed foods to get by, they don’t help with inflammation. “Eating foods with enough protein and antioxidants like vitamins C and E will help maintain skin health and prevent breakouts,” says Dr. Batra. “Taking 100 micrograms of supplemental selenium (in the form of l-selenomethionine) will help the skin mitigate free radical damage.”
Experts also stress the importance of barrier function. Take a break from overly drying products such as alcohol-based toners, products that contain dyes or fragrances, and harsher actives. Instead, stick to ultra-gentle formulas with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid – applied head to toe after showering to keep skin hydrated and tight.
Also, you want to keep your windows closed and air cleaner running. Both Dr. Batra and Dr. Evans suggest adding one humidifier to help combat the effects of air purifiers that can lower your home’s humidity levels—and drink as much water as possible.
What to do if your water is also contaminated
As a result of the toxins and ash released during the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires, many affected and adjacent areas were issued boil notices and instructed to avoid drinking potentially contaminated tap water—with some recommending avoiding all use of tap water (including bathing). “Contaminated water containing metals, pesticides and harmful chemicals poses similar threats to skin, scalp and hair as toxins carried by smoke,” says Dr Batra. The harmful residues left on the skin can trigger and worsen rashes or skin conditions, premature skin aging and lead to skin cancer in the long term.
If you’re in an area where it’s recommended to avoid tap water, there are quick-fix options if you don’t want to waste endless amounts of bottled water washing your face and hair. Use water-based wipes and cleansing cloths or use micellar water to thoroughly dry your face and body.
For hair, wearing hats or scarves can help minimize hair’s overall exposure to fire smoke and the need for more frequent washing. Choose hair wipes to remove surface dirt and oil from the scalp and brush through your hair regularly to help distribute your hair’s natural oils. Dry shampoo also helps absorb excess oil on the scalp to extend the time between washes.
Hannah Cassidy is a PS contributor.
