If you live in a busy city and have noticed more breakouts, clogged pores, or dull skin lately, you're not imagining things. Acne has many causes hormones, diet, bacteria but one factor gaining increasing attention from dermatologists is environmental pollution. So, does air pollution cause acne? The short answer: it can be a significant contributing factor, especially for people who already have oily or sensitive skin. Here's what the research and skin experts actually say. How Air Pollution Affects Your Skin Airborne pollutants including vehicle exhaust, industrial smoke, dust, and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) settle on your skin throughout the day. Unlike larger dust particles, PM2.5 is small enough to penetrate deep into pores and even disrupt the skin barrier. Dermatologists point to a few key ways pollution affects skin: Clogged pores: Fine particles mix with sebum (natural skin oil) and dirt, blocking pores and creating the perfect environment for breakouts. Oxi...