Abstract: Air pollutants primarily include particulate matter, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and gaseous pollutants. They act synergistically mainly through multiple pathways, including inducing oxidative stress, activating inflammatory signaling pathways, mediating aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-dependent toxic responses, and disrupting the skin barrier. Protective strategies include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signaling regulation, organelle protection, barrier repair, and modulation of the skin microecology. We review the research progress on the molecular mechanisms of air pollution-induced skin damage and related protective strategies, aiming to provide a reference for future research and clinical protection.

Key words: air pollution, skin damage, oxidative stress, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, protective strategies