What Your Skin Absorbs: Chemicals, UV Rays & More

The skin absorbs various substances, impacting health:

• Chemicals: From cosmetics, cleaners, pesticides—some endocrine disruptors, carcinogens
• UV radiation: Penetrates dermis → DNA damage, photoaging, skin cancer
• Water: Hydrates stratum corneum; excessive exposure disrupts barrier
• Gases: O₂, CO₂ diffuse across skin (minor compared to lungs)
• Medications: Transdermal patches (nicotine, hormones, analgesics)

Absorption depends on: molecule size, lipophilicity, concentration, skin integrity, hydration, temperature, and application area.

Protection

• Protective clothing/gloves for chemical exposure
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily
• Gentle cleansers; avoid harsh soaps
• Moisturize to maintain barrier
• Hydrate internally

Skin is a dynamic barrier—not impermeable. Minimize unnecessary exposures.