How does smoking affect the facial skin?

The skin is the organ that reflects the health of the body in the best and most immediate way. Above all, it’s easy to see who smokes – and who never did. Hundreds of studies have proven how much our skin reflects our quality of life and lifestyle, regardless of how good our genetics are.

The effect of smoking cannabis on the skin

The cannabis plant contains cannabinoids, which affect the endocannabinoid system in the skin, which is responsible for regulating the fat production system in the mammary glands. So if the natural balance in the system is violated, it can be noticed already in the early stages. Studies have shown how fat production in the mammary glands is increased as a direct result of the introduction of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is in the plant, to the blood system.

him THC Responsible for the changes in perception or the feeling of euphoria of the users and their mood under the influence of the plant, for the undermining of decision-making and for manch attacks – that craving for fatty, carbohydrate-rich food and high in sugars, which is not recommended to say the least for those who suffer from oily skin and in general for our health.

Smokers are also exposed to a fundamental change in testosterone levels in the body, which causes the pores in the skin to be blocked and the balance in oily skin to be disturbed. Here, too, the meaning is increasing the chance of a sudden acne outbreak, as well as harming the flow of oxygen in the blood and increasing existing inflammations in the body.

A study published inJournal of Clinical Medicine In 2019, he found a link between cannabis use and the risk of acne, especially in regular users. In addition to this, there is a direct connection between the use of cannabis and the secretion of hormones related to the development of various skin problems, the most prominent of which is the stress hormone, cortisol.

What do we do?

In mild acne, the initial treatment will be topical medications. Moderate and severe acne or with scarring will be treated with Roaccutane. Treatment is often started with a reduced dose and then gradually increased. Another approach is to administer the drug in low doses over an extended period of time. Both methods aim to reduce side effects. With the proper planning and accompaniment of a specialist dermatologist, it is possible to combine advanced laser equipment alongside antibiotic drugs and ointments based on retinoid acid and vitamin derivatives A. In most cases, an improvement can be seen after 4-6 weeks of careful treatment.

The effect of cigarette smoking on the skin

Among the many damages caused by smoking you will also find the appearance of the skin. Studies have found that tobacco smoke itself is harmful to the skin and causes a decrease in elasticity, a thickening of the epidermis and a lower density of the cells, which increases the likelihood of wrinkles. Smoking accelerates the aging process, so inhaling smoke has a destructive and long-term effect on the skin of the face.

Dozens of chemicals and toxins found in cigarettes cause direct damage to the genetic material in the cells (DNA). The cells divide uncontrollably, which may create a cancerous tumor, damage the skin tissues, and lead to a variety of aesthetic and health problems. Cigarette smoke contains a large amount of free radicals, which damage collagen and elastin and in the proteins that are essential for maintaining the elasticity of the skin and thus speeding up the aging process.

 

 

 

The accumulation of nicotine and toxins in the skin will cause many smokers to suffer from premature acceleration of skin aging, the formation of wrinkles, tired skin with an uneven tone and the appearance of spots. Also from a health point of view – the skin will have difficulty recovering from cuts and wounds due to slow blood flow. This is also the reason why doctors recommend smokers to stop smoking before and after a planned surgical procedure. In addition, the risk of psoriasis and other skin diseases increases.

The effect of smoking electronic cigarettes on the skin

The nicotine in e-cigarettes causes blood vessels to narrow, which reduces the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This poor flow will prevent the cells from receiving enough oxygen, thus the skin regeneration processes will slow down and the accumulated damage will become wide and varied. Smoking impairs the absorption of essential vitamins for skin health, such as vitamin A Cimportant for creating collagen and protecting against sun damage. Studies show that vapors from electronic cigarettes contain oxidizing substances that may damage collagen production and accelerate skin aging.

A variety of chemical substances, including propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavoring agents, and nicotine, may cause skin irritation, especially when they come into direct contact with it, redness, dryness and itching, or an allergic reaction such as rash or swelling. Also, prolonged exposure to certain substances in the evaporating liquid may cause changes in skin tone.

 

 

 

How is it recommended to take care of the skin?

Until you do the best thing for you and your environment – stop smoking – follow the following recommendations:

1. Maintain thorough hygiene
   Wash the skin of the face and body every day, this way you will remove the impurities and free radicals to which the skin is exposed during the day.
2. Protect the skin from the sun
   Minimize exposure to the sun and use sunscreen all year round.
3. drink water
   lots of. The water improves the day in the skin and cleans the toxins from the cells in its flow.

    

    

4. Make sure you have a proper diet
   Include vegetables and fruits in the menu, try to follow a healthy and nutritious diet and avoid junk food, salt and monosodium glutamate.

Dr. Sivan Mercer is an expert in dermatology, aesthetics and laser