Smoking a contributor to many dermatologic conditions and complications..

November 16, 2008 - Smoking is a contributor to many dermatologic conditions and complications, such as poor wound healing, collagen degradation, skin discoloration, the formation of abnormal skin growths, deep wrinkling and premature skin aging.

Dermatologist Jennifer Linder says, the connection between skin aging and cigarette smoking is now so apparent that warning labels such as "smoking makes your skin age" can be seen on cigarette packages in Europe and in other parts of the world.

The role of nicotine on skin. Nicotinic receptors are expressed in the skin, on keratinocytes, fibroblasts and blood vessels. Nicotine induces vasoconstriction associated with local hyperaemia. It inhibits inflammation through effects on central and peripheral nervous system and through direct effect on immune cells. It delays wound healing and accelerates skin aging. (Laurent Misery (laurent.misery@chu-brest.fr), Nicotine effects on skin: Are they positive or negative?, Experimental Dermatology 13:665-670, 2004)

Smoking for only five years causes enough damage to the skin to cause "smoker's skin" - see image, which may appear many years later.

Related news briefs: A girl's guide to naturally beautiful skin.. and Tobacco Smoking - Shortens Life Expectancy, Reduces Quality of Life..

Reference: The adverse effects of smoking on your beauty, ABC15.com staff, 11/12/2008.