Climate Change: How Environmental Changes Affect 10 Skin Problems!

In recent decades, we have observed significant climate changes. Where we used to frequently ice skate on natural ice, the number of snow days in the Netherlands has decreased significantly. Climate change includes long-term changes in average weather conditions on Earth, such as an increase in the average global temperature. This results in more heatwaves, intense rainfall, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels. These changes not only affect nature and animals, but also human health, including skin health. In this blog, we explore ten skin conditions that can be exacerbated by climate change.

Which skin diseases are influenced by climate change?

Sunburn and skin cancer: With the decrease in the ozone layer due to environmental pollution, there is an increase in the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching our skin. This significantly increases the risk of sunburn and in the long term skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. More about Skin cancer

Acne: An increase in temperature can result in higher sebum production. Furthermore, higher humidity and UV radiation can stimulate the sebaceous glands into overactivity. These factors contribute to the increase of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacterium that is strongly associated with the development of acne. These effects can vary individually, depending on the unique microbiome of the skin, and can stimulate the growth of C. acnes, which can cause sustained inflammation and thus acne flare-ups, especially when there are no competing microbes present. More about Acne

Eczema: Fluctuations in humidity levels can significantly impact pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema. In dry conditions, the air can extract moisture from the skin, leading to increased dryness, flaking, and irritation. On the other hand, increased humidity can compromise the skin barrier and facilitate the penetration of allergens. This also promotes the growth of skin-irritating microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and increases perspiration, causing additional irritation and dehydration. In summary, these factors can exacerbate inflammatory responses in the skin and intensify the symptoms of eczema. More about Eczema

Tick Bites: Rising temperatures can also promote the spread of certain pathogens that cause infectious skin diseases. For example, warmer temperatures can accelerate and expand the life cycle of ticks that carry Lyme disease, to new geographical areas. More on Tick Bites

Tropical Diseases: Leishmaniasis is caused by parasites that are transmitted by sandflies. Due to global warming, these sandflies are expanding their habitat to more temperate climates, leading to an increase in the spread of these diseases. As a result, more people in previously unaffected areas may experience the symptoms of Leishmaniasis, such as skin ulcers and scars. This spread underscores the importance of increased vigilance and preventive measures in areas previously considered low risk.

Rosacea: Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness and the visibility of fine blood vessels, mainly in the face. The symptoms of rosacea can worsen with exposure to high temperatures and UV radiation, both of which are known triggers for flare-ups of the condition. With increasing sunlight intensity due to changes in the climate and environment, there is a greater risk of frequent and severe rosacea flare-ups. It’s therefore essential to apply effective sun protection and avoid direct exposure to high temperatures and sunlight where possible. In addition, it may be advisable to use cooling and soothing skincare products specifically developed for sensitive skin with rosacea. More about rosacea

Photodermatoses: These abnormal skin reactions to sunlight, such as polymorphic light eruption (PLE), are characterized by a red, itchy or burning rash that occurs after exposure to sunlight. These reactions are primarily the result of hypersensitivity to UV rays, which can increase due to the depletion of the ozone layer. As a result of the decrease in ozone in the stratosphere, the amount of UV radiation reaching the earth’s surface increases, which can lead to more frequent and intense occurrences of such skin reactions. It is important to use effective sun protection, such as broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing, to protect the skin from the increased UV load. In addition, it may be advisable to stay indoors during peak hours of sun radiation to minimize the risk of these reactions.

Fungal Infections: Higher temperatures and increased humidity create an ideal environment for the proliferation of fungi, which thrive optimally in warm and moist conditions. These conditions facilitate the growth of fungi on the skin and in the folds of the body, resulting in an increase in fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete’s foot. The frequent exposure to sweat, which is abundant in such climates, can soften the skin, making it easier for fungi to settle and spread. Preventive measures, such as keeping the skin dry and clean, and the use of antimicrobial and antifungal agents, are essential to control the spread of such infections in humid climates.

Miliaria (heat rash): This skin condition, known as miliaria or heat rash, occurs when sweat glands become blocked during periods of intense heat, leading to the appearance of small, itchy bumps or blisters on the skin. The increased heat and humidity make people sweat more, which increases the chances of sweat gland blockages. Therefore, it’s important to wear light and breathable clothing in warm climates, to cool down regularly, and to stay well-hydrated to minimise the symptoms of miliaria.

Frostbite: Paradoxically, climate change can also lead to more extreme winter weather conditions in some world regions, which can increase the risk of frostbite. These injuries occur when the skin and the underlying tissue freeze, often on the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes.

What can you do?

It is essential to be aware of potential skin problems that can result from climate change and to take preventative measures. Protection from the sun remains crucial: use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30, wear protective clothing, and limit exposure to direct sunlight. Stay hydrated and use moisturizing creams to strengthen the skin barrier. When choosing skin care products, consider using natural and sustainable products.

By being more aware of how climate change affects our skin, we can be better prepared to protect and keep our skin healthy in a changing environment.

This is what we find important:

At Iconic Elements, we highly value the power of natural ingredients and sustainable production processes. We ensure that our products are free from parabens, lanolin, silicones, sulfates, and BPA. This is not only better for your skin but also for the environment. We do not use microplastics in our products and proudly carry the ZERO PLASTIC INSIDE label. In 2022, we even won an award for our efforts. All our products are developed with the input of dermatologists and skin therapists to guarantee the highest quality and effectiveness. We are cruelty-free and our products contain no animal ingredients, making them suitable for vegans.