Pollution has dramatically risen over the last few decades due to factors like overpopulation, an increase in travel, agriculture and industry, and more. Below, we take a look a 7 shocking pollution statistics, and how they affect more than just the air.

What is pollution?

Pollution refers to contaminants introduced into the environment that pose adverse effects on it. Pollution comes in many forms. It can be both organic contaminants and man-made substances. The most common forms of pollution are air pollution, water pollution, agricultural pollution, and land pollution.

Shocking Statistics About Pollution:

1. More than nine out of 10 of the world’s population – 92% – lives in places where air pollution exceeds safe limits, according to research from the World Health Organization (WHO).
2. Pollution is one of the biggest global killers, affecting over 100 million people. (WHO)
3. People who live in places with high levels of air pollutants have a 20% higher risk of death from lung cancer than people who live in less polluted areas. (Reuters)
4. Approximately 40% of the lakes in America are too polluted for fishing, aquatic life, or swimming. (EPA)
5. Americans make up an estimated 5% of the world’s population. However, the US uses 25% of the world’s resources - burning up nearly 25% of the coal, 26% of the oil, and 27% of the world’s natural gas. (Worldwatch Institute)
6. Air pollution is the fourth-largest threat to human health, behind high blood pressure, dietary risks and smoking. (WHO)
7. Tiny particles, known as particulate matter or PM2.5, have a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers and can penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of disease. (WHO)

How Pollution Affects You

Pollution isn’t just bad for the environment—it’s bad for your health. Small particles of pollutants can cause respiratory illnesses and even, in some cases, death. Pollutants can also have adverse effects on your skin such as skin conditions like eczema and hyperpigmentation to premature aging and chronic dryness.

Pollution Effects on the Skin

While you can’t go back in time and reverse the increase in pollution, there are some things you can change. In addition to fighting the good fight against pollution and doing your part in going green, you can also work to prevent pollution effects on your skin. By loading up on anti-pollution skin products, you can help protect your skin against the pollutants you encounter on a daily basis. Rejuvaskin’s anti-pollution cleanser (coming this summer!) works to fight free radicals and prevent the skin from absorbing chemicals that may compromise the integrity of your skin.

You can’t avoid going outside completely, but you can work to give your skin a fighting chance against the harmful effects of pollution with anti-pollution skincare products.