World No Tobacco Day 2023: How smoking wreaks havoc on your skin, hair and eye health
On World No Tobacco Day, explore the dark side of smoking by exploring how this unhealthy habit affects your skin, hair and eyes.
World No Tobacco Day is an awareness campaign organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners, observed annually on 31 May. The day aims to raise awareness about the health risks of tobacco use and support effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption worldwide. Smoking is a harmful behavior that not only endangers our internal organs but also has visible effects on our external appearance. As research progresses, the dangerous link between smoking and its harmful effects on our skin, hair and eyes is becoming increasingly clear. Let’s explore this uneasy relationship to gain a deeper understanding of the adverse effects of smoking. (Also Read: No Tobacco Day 2023: Date, History, Significance, Theme and Celebration of World No Tobacco Day This Year)
How does smoking affect your skin, hair and eyes?
Effects on skin:
Dr. Bhushan Jade, Director, Radiation Oncology, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, told HT Lifestyle, “Smoking is not good for your skin’s health. Harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke disrupt the skin’s natural balance. It accelerates the aging process and disrupts its overall quality. Regular smoking leads to fine lines, wrinkles and A factor in the development of sagging. Collagen and elastin, which are important for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and firmness, are destroyed by the carcinogens in tobacco smoke.”
“As a result, smokers often have dull, uneven skin tones and slower wound and skin wound recovery times. Smoking worsens common skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. Chemicals in tobacco smoke cause inflammation in the body. Eruptions and pre-existing skin conditions “Smoking constricts blood vessels, which reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the skin. Smokers look older than non-smokers, which results in a pale, sallow complexion,” says Dr. Bhushan.
Effect on Hair:
He further shared, “Smoking has a negative impact on our hair in addition to our skin. The harmful fumes and chemicals from smoking weaken and shrink the hair follicles, leading to hair loss and thinning. This is because smoking disrupts the production of melanin, which gives hair its color. Color, smoking and premature hair Studies have demonstrated a direct link between graying and as a result, smokers may struggle with brittle, lifeless hair that lacks life and volume.”
Effects on eyes:
“The harmful effects of smoking extend to the eyes, which are often referred to as the ‘windows to the soul.'” More. Smokers are more likely to develop macular degeneration, one of the leading causes of blindness. Smoking damages the fragile cells of the retina with harmful chemicals. Additionally, smoking irritates the eyes, resulting in redness, itching and increased tear production, says Dr. Bhushan.
He added, “There is one bright spot, though: Quitting smoking can help reverse some of the ills. According to studies, people who quit smoking see changes in their skin’s texture and appearance with fewer wrinkles and a healthier complexion. Eye problems, hair loss can be significantly reduced and, in some cases, even partially reversed. .”
“In conclusion, smoking not only poses a serious threat to our internal health but also permanently changes our appearance. The negative effects of smoking on our skin, hair and eyes are undeniable and not unpleasant, from early aging and dullness. From skin to hair loss and eye disorders. Knowing these adverse effects , serve as a powerful reminder to break the habit, maintain our health, and preserve the natural beauty within each of us.
