{
  "id": 9645729,
  "title": "Haze doesn’t just hurt your lungs: Experts warn of hidden damage to skin, scalp and eyes",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/haze-doesnt-just-hurt-your-lungs-experts-warn-of-hidden-damage-to",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-24T23:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Malay Mail",
    "slug": "malay-mail",
    "url": "https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/09/25/newsmalaysia20260922haze-doesnt-just-hurt-your-lungs-experts-warn-of-hidden-damage-to-skin-scalp-and-eyes236146/236146"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — While haze episodes commonly prompt public health warnings concerning respiratory health, medical experts are raising awareness about the hidden, often disregarded impact of pollutants on the body's largest organ: the skin, as well as the scalp and eyes. Specialists reveal that fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, poses significant risks beyond surface-level dirt. Consultant dermatologist Dr Nik Aimee Azizah Faheem highlights that these tiny particles, measuring 2.5 micrometres in diameter, can penetrate tissue, including the skin, lungs and eyes. Skin damage The invisible damage from PM2.5 particles can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, resulting in heightened sensitivity, dryness, and irritation, potentially triggering flare-ups of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Dr Kwan Zhenli, a consultant dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Subang Jaya Medical Centre, explains that haze, a mixture of smoke, dust, moisture and vapour suspended in the air, can penetrate the skin, inducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, haze alters the skin's microbiome composition, impairing its barrier function. The synergistic effect of air pollutants and UV radiation exacerbates skin damage, a major concern for dermatologists. Many people mistakenly believe that \"cloudy\" or hazy skies mean lower UV exposure, leading to the omission of sun protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing. This can result in long-term photo-damaging effects like pigmentary disorders, wrinkles, and skin cancers. Scalp and hair health The scalp is not immune to the effects of PM2.5 particles. These particles can block hair follicles, leading to inflammation and scalp congestion, and result in seborrhoeic dermatitis. Hair may lose shine, structural integrity, and potentially suffer from hair loss, including conditions like alopecia areata. Eye health The eyes are direct targets for irritation caused by haze. Short-term exposure can lead to dryness, redness, itchiness, and conjunctivitis. Long-term exposure may result in persistent dry eyes, cataract, and glaucoma. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their more active lifestyles, developing immune and respiratory systems, and prolonged outdoor activities. Protective measures The experts advise a multi-step approach to protection, primarily focusing on avoidance. Staying indoors and limiting outdoor activities are crucial. Avoiding contact lenses and reducing screen time can also help prevent eye strain and further dryness. Dermatologists recommend using a comprehensive skincare routine, including moisturisers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide to counter oxidative stress. Regardless of haze conditions, applying sunscreen daily remains essential. Washing the face and scalp after outdoor exposure and avoiding harsh scrubbing are also advised.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — While public health warnings during haze episodes typically focus on respiratory health, m...",
  "key_points": [
    "PM2.5 particles penetrate skin, scalp, and eyes, causing hidden damage",
    "Skin barrier disruption leads to sensitivity, dryness, and irritation",
    "Protective measures include avoidance, skincare, and daily sunscreen use"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malay Mail",
        "title": "Haze doesn’t just hurt your lungs: Experts warn of hidden damage to skin, scalp and eyes",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/haze-doesnt-just-hurt-your-lungs-experts-warn-of-hidden-damage-to-9647261",
        "published": "2026-09-24T23:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}