Discover the devastating effects of smoking on the skin
Smoking is often associated with serious health problems, but its effects on the skin are just as worrying. As well as damaging the lungs and heart, smoking accelerates skin ageing, dulls the complexion, can cause skin cancer, impairs healing and increases the risk of psoriasis and acne.
Accelerated skin aging
Smoking causes aging premature skin aging. Studies have shown that smokers have reduced skin elasticity, increased dermal thickness and decreased epidermal density. Tobacco smoke reduces collagen biosynthesis and stimulates matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) responsible for the degradation of collagen and elastin fibers. This process is exacerbated by the reactive oxygen species present in smoke, resulting in deep wrinkles and less firm skin.
A Dull, Gray Complexion
Smokers often have a dull complexion and grayish. The carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke binds to hemoglobin, reducing the blood's ability to carry oxygen. This results in insufficient oxygenation of skin cells, slowing down the cell renewal and causing a build-up of dead cells. The result is lacklustre skin that looks tired and aged.
Increased risk of skin cancer
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic compounds such as nitrosamines, phenolic compounds and aromatic amines. These substances can cause DNA mutations, notably in the p53 tumor suppressor gene, thus favoring the development of skin cancers.
Impaired healing
The toxic substances in cigarette smoke alter the inflammatory phase of the healing, reduce the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and disrupt collagen production. Together, these factors delay the formation of granulation tissue, and increase the risk of wound dehiscence (wound opening) and infection.
Increased risk of psoriasis
Smoking is a significant risk factor for psoriasis. Free radicals generated by cigarette smoke cause oxidative stress and damage the dermal membrane. Nicotine also stimulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-12, promoting skin inflammation and the onset of psoriasis. Smokers are almost twice as likely to develop this skin condition as non-smokers.
Association with Acne
Smoking can aggravateacneincluding non-inflammatory acne. Studies show a significant correlation between smoking and the frequency of acne. Smoking alters the composition of sebumThis reduces vitamin E levels and increases oxidative stress. Sebaceous lipid peroxides, such as oxidized squalene, cause hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, clogging pores and leading to the appearance of comedones.
Smoking has considerable adverse effects on the skin. By accelerating skin ageing, dulling complexion, increasing the risk of skin cancers, impairing healing, and promoting conditions such as psoriasis and acne, tobacco seriously compromises the health and appearance of the skin. To preserve healthy, glowing skin, it's essential to stop smoking and avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, even passively.
