Our beautiful city of Los Angeles has been through such a sad and surreal time, one of the worst fires in California history, the Palisades fire. My heart goes out to all those that have been affected and those that have lost their lives. The brave first responders and firefighters who have put themselves in harm’s way to protect all of us are superheroes! There are not enough words to express my gratitude.

The air quality in all of Los Angels is affecting tens of millions of our residents. The fires have displaced and killed so many, with many more missing. It’s heartbreaking.

If you were lucky enough not to be in the direct path of the fires, you may still be struggling with the effects of the poor air quality from wildfire smoke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified multiple health problems that can be caused by smoky air and the cleanup afterward:

• Respiratory problems
• Stinging eyes
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• Faster heartbeat or palpitations
• Great susceptibility to lung disease
• Chest pain
• Skin problems

Palisades Fire as it began

Yes, wildfire is damaging to your skin. In high concentrations, soot, ash and smoke can definitely damage your skin. However, damage can be prevented or relatively easily treated. Staying out of direct contact with fire and smoke. Breathe indoor air that has been filtered. Keep doors and windows closed.

Of course people can’t stay indoors indefinitely, so N95 masks are recommended in these circumstances. While masks do a good job protecting the mouth and nose, masks will not protect other areas such as around the eyes. Your skin will experience clogged pores, caused by fine particles in the air, soot and ash. This can cause acne, blackheads, and potentially breakouts. Air pollution causes damaged collagen, the protein that makes the skin strong, tight and firm. With collagen diminished, the skin will naturally begin to wrinkle.

These tips can keep you from experiencing the worst of the air pollution:

• Consider investing in an air purifier to prevent indoor pollution from affecting your skin and lungs.
• When you come inside, clean your skin to rid your pores of soot, ash, and debris from the air.
• Gently exfoliate your skin with a soft physical scrub. Harsh scrubs can increase inflammation, especially at this time.
• Use a mask to help draw out impurities.
• With higher levels of smoke and debris in the air, you may need to upgrade your moisturizer. Smoke saps moisture out of the air more quickly than usual.
• Use a balm on areas such as chapped lips, cuticles, elbows and knees.
• Clothes can help protect the skin. Hats, long sleeved shirts, long pants and socks can all prevent skin contact.

My prayers go out to those who have lost loved ones, those that are displaced and affected by this incredible devastation.

With love,
Veronica

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”
– Audrey Hepburn