When haze blankets the skies, most health warnings focus on the risks to our lungs and respiratory system.
But dermatologists are warning that the effects of air pollution can extend far beyond breathing, with the skin, scalp and eyes also vulnerable to tiny pollutants carried in the air.
Among the biggest concerns is PM2.5 — fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter. According to UM Specialist Centre consultant dermatologist Dr Nik Aimee Azizah Faheem, these particles are small enough to penetrate tissue rather than simply settling on the surface.
“Haze is not just the usual dust and pollutants; it has PM2.5 particles which are tiny, 2.5 micrometres in diameter. These particles can penetrate our tissue, be it the skin, lungs, or eyes.
“They don’t just sit on the surface and cause external dirt,” she told Malay Mail.
The Invisible Damage
Once PM2.5 particles come into contact with the skin, they can disrupt its natural protective barrier, potentially causing increased sensitivity, dryness and irritation.
For people with existing skin conditions, the exposure may also trigger flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis and acne.
Subang Jaya Medical Centre consultant dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Dr Kwan Zhenli said haze contains particulate matter made up of smoke, dust, moisture and vapour suspended in the air.
“Particulate matter in haze can penetrate the skin, causing oxidative stress and inflammation,” she said.
Dr Kwan added that haze can also alter the skin microbiome, potentially weakening its barrier function.
Air pollution can further interact with UV radiation, worsening oxidative damage to the skin.
This is particularly concerning because hazy or cloudy skies can give people the false impression that UV exposure is lower.
Dr Nik warned that some people may skip sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and UV-protective clothing during haze episodes because they assume there is less harmful UV radiation.
Over time, she said, this could contribute to photo-damage such as pigmentation, wrinkles and potentially skin cancers.
Pantai Hospital Cheras dermatologist Dr Low Dyoi-E also warned that prolonged exposure could accelerate premature skin ageing through free-radical damage to collagen and elastin.
“It can also contribute to dullness, uneven pigmentation and weakening of the skin barrier, increasing dryness and potentially aggravating inflammatory conditions such as eczema,” Dr Low said.
Your Scalp And Hair Are Not Spared
The scalp can also be affected by particulate pollution.
Dr Nik said PM2.5 particles can block hair follicles, disrupting the scalp barrier and contributing to a buildup of dirt and dead skin cells.
The particles may also encourage an overgrowth of Malassezia furfur, a type of yeast that normally lives on the scalp.
This can contribute to an inflamed, itchy and flaky scalp condition known as seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Dr Kwan said particulate matter could also trigger inflammatory responses around hair follicles, resulting in chemical and oxidative damage.
The effects may include loss of shine, weakened hair structure and hair loss, including conditions such as alopecia areata.
Eyes And Children Particularly Vulnerable
The eyes can experience the effects of haze almost immediately.
Short-term exposure may cause dryness, redness, itchiness and conjunctivitis.
But Dr Nik warned that prolonged exposure could potentially lead to persistent dry eyes, cataracts and glaucoma.
Children are another group requiring particular attention.
Dr Kwan said children may be more vulnerable because they tend to spend more time outdoors, are physically more active and have developing respiratory systems that are more susceptible to particulate pollution.
When Should You Be Concerned?
According to Dr Nik, people who already have skin, hair or eye conditions may experience flare-ups when the Air Pollutant Index (API) reaches 50 or above.
For the general population, an API reading of 100 or above may be enough to cause dryness and irritation.
As haze levels rise, experts therefore recommend taking precautions even before symptoms become obvious.
How To Protect Yourself During Haze
The most effective measure is also the simplest: reduce exposure.
“Number one is avoidance; that means to stay indoors and avoid any outdoor activities,” Dr Nik said.
She also advised people to avoid wearing contact lenses during haze, as particles can become trapped against the eyes.
Reducing screen time may also help prevent additional eye strain and dryness.
Dr Kwan recommended staying indoors as much as possible, using air purifiers, drinking plenty of water and maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants.
For the skin, Dr Low suggested moisturisers containing ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid or niacinamide. Antioxidants including vitamins C and E may also help counter oxidative stress.
Regardless of how hazy the sky looks, Dr Nik and Dr Low stressed that sunscreen should remain part of the daily skincare routine.
After spending time outdoors, Dr Low advised washing the face and scalp to remove pollutants, while avoiding harsh scrubbing that could further irritate the skin.
The message from the experts is clear: haze is not simply something we breathe in. The tiny particles suspended in polluted air can also affect the skin, scalp and eyes — making everyday protection important whenever air quality deteriorates.
