How to Protect Your Skin and Hair From Wildfire Smoke, According to MDs

In the wake of such immeasurable loss, remembering to wear moisturizer while a wildfire rages might seem . . . trivial. Yet the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have shown California communities just how meaningful (and complex) self-care can be in the wake of climate disaster. Health concerns around wildfire smoke, air quality, contaminated water, and even stress have created an unnerving number of potential effects that are just beginning to unfold.

It comes as no surprise that our skin, as the largest organ in our body, can be particularly vulnerable to wildfire toxins. "Mounting evidence suggests that wildfires, which are increasing in intensity and frequency, contribute to skin problems, including dry skin or eczema flares. They can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin," says dermatologist Tracy Evans, MD, MPH.

Thankfully, there are tangible steps you can take to support your skin's well-being and provide a much-needed sense of control in times of chaos. If you've found yourself worrying about wildfire smoke exposure, we tapped two dermatologists to provide clarity and guidance on protecting yourself and your skin.

Experts Featured in This Story

Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH, is a dual board-certified dermatologist and founder of Batra Dermatology in Santa Monica, CA.

Tracy Evans, MD, MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology based in San Francisco, CA.

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Skin Health

One of the most critical aspects of navigating skin health is understanding our environment's role in overall health — and in a wildfire's toxic conditions, it becomes essential. "The skin's function as an organ is to act as a barrier against the outside world," says Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. "The extreme lack of humidity during wildfires creates cracks and fissures in the skin's outer layer. These openings in the skin's seal make it more vulnerable to irritants and infection."

Generally, the effects of wildfire smoke ultimately depend on the levels and length of exposure and any preexisting skin conditions. "Short-term exposure leads to short-term problems, but even short-term exposure may result in a flare of eczema that can last for many weeks or months unless it is controlled and treated appropriately," says Dr. Evans, stressing the benefit of swift action if you're experiencing inflammation.

Long-term exposure, however, can be much more insidious. "Pollutants carried by wildfire smoke cause free radicals that damage lipids, proteins, and DNA in skin cells leading to premature aging of the skin," Dr. Batra says. The lasting complications of this damage can lead to hyperpigmentation, accelerated collagen breakdown, and even skin cancer. It's an alarming realization, but not without a course of action.

How to Protect Skin From Wildfire Smoke

First things first, try not to panic. Understandably, a stress response is inevitable in a wildfire zone (how could it not be), but any way you can help decrease cortisol levels could aid in your skin's reparative process. "The severe emotional toll of the wildfires causes flares of many preexisting conditions that were previously well-controlled," says Dr. Batra.

And while it might be tempting to reach for sugary processed foods to cope, they won't help with inflammation. "Eating foods with adequate protein and antioxidants such as vitamins C and E will help maintain skin health and prevent flares," says Dr. Batra. "Taking 100 micrograms of the supplement selenium (in the form l-selenomethionine) will help skin quench damage from free radicals."

Experts also emphasize the importance of barrier function. Take a break from overly drying products like alcohol-based toners, products containing dyes or fragrances, and harsher actives. Instead, stick with ultra-gentle formulas with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid — applied head to toe after showering to keep skin hydrated and sealed.

Additionally, you'll want to keep your windows closed and air purifiers running. Both Dr. Batra and Dr. Evans suggest adding a humidifier to help combat the effects of air purifiers which can lower your home's humidity levels — and drinking as much water as possible.

What to Do If Your Water Is Contaminated, Too

As a result of the toxins and ash released during the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires, many affected and adjacent areas were given boil notices and instructed to avoid drinking potentially contaminated tap water — with some advised to avoid all uses of tap water (including bathing). "Contaminated water that contains metals, pesticides, and harmful chemicals poses similar threats to skin, scalp, and hair as the toxins carried by smoke," says Dr Batra. The harmful residue that remains on the skin can trigger and worsen rashes or skin conditions, prematurely age skin, and lead to skin cancer in the long term.

If you're in an area where it is recommended to avoid tap water, there are quick-fix options if you don't want to waste endless amounts of bottled water washing your face and hair. Use water-based wipes and cleansing cloths or use micellar water to thoroughly wipe down the face and body.

For hair, wearing hats or scarves can help minimize your hair's overall exposure to wildfire smoke and the need for more frequent washing. Opt for hair wipes to help remove surface dirt and oil on the scalp and brush through hair regularly to help distribute your hair's natural oils. Dry shampoo will also help absorb any excess scalp oil to extend the time between washes.

Hannah Cassidy is a PS contributor.