Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that endanger human health and/or the environment. It can take the form of chemical substances or energy, such as noise, heat or light.
Pollutants, the components of pollution, can be either foreign substances or energies, or naturally occurring contaminants. From cars and industrial emissions to dust storms, pollen and smoke inside the home, air pollution poses a major threat to our health and the climate. According to the WHO, 90% of us are exposed to it.1
Airborne particular matter (PM) with diameters of <10 µm and in particular of <2.5 µm is associated with serious health effects, including cardiovascular disease and lung damage, but also with skin health issues. The skin, the interface between the environment and the body, is the first site of contact with pollutants, regardless of type and size.2-4 PM and adhering substances can:
- Exacerbate (infla