These are the countries where your skin will age the fastest and the slowest

For many people, preserving a youthful appearance is at the top of their anti-ageing priority list.

Using data from 157 countries, the Healthnews Research team compiled an Environmental Skin Ageing Index to identify which regions have the lowest and highest environmental impact on skin ageing based on solar radiation and air pollution levels. 

The results show that people living in Northern European countries fare better in terms of skin ageing than those living in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Egypt ranks first globally for skin ageing, with an Environmental Skin Aging Index score of 81.67. The primary factors contributing to accelerated ageing in Egypt include:

• Extreme solar radiation: 1,200 times higher than in countries like Ireland.
• High Particle pollution from fine particulates (PM2.5) levels: Ranked 5th in the world.
• Ozone pollution: Ranked 11th globally.
• NO₂ pollution: Ranked 30th worldwide.

The combination of harsh sunlight and air pollution makes Egypt the most challenging country for maintaining youthful skin.

Western Asia dominates the top 15 list, with all Arabian Peninsula countries featuring prominently due to their harsh environmental conditions. 

Countries where skin ages the fastest

1. Egypt
2. Qatar
3. Saudi Arabia
4. Yemen
5. Oman
6. Bahrain
7. Kuwait
8. India
9. Iraq
10. Pakistan
11. Bangladesh
12. United Arab Emirates
13. Nigeria
14. Iran
15. Sudan

These nations experience high UV exposure, pollution, and climate extremes, making skin health a growing concern. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to photoageing, characterized by wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of elasticity.

Countries where skin ages the slowest

Northern Europe offers the most skin-friendly environments. The top 15 countries with the most favourable conditions for skin health include:

1. Ireland – The lowest solar radiation globally, with an index score of 15.15.
2. Norway
3. Sweden
4. Estonia
5. United Kingdom
6. Denmark
7. Lithuania
8. Latvia
9. New Zealand
10. Netherlands
11. Luxembourg
12. Belgium
13. Canada
14. Germany
15. Belarus

These nations experience low UV exposure and moderate air pollution levels, contributing to slower extrinsic skin aging (ageing caused by environmental factors).

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