### Effects of Secondhand and Thirdhand Smoke on Skin Health Being around tobacco smoke is harmful, even if it's someone else's smoke. When someone smokes, most of the smoke doesn't go into their lungs but into the air, where others can breathe it. This is known as secondhand smoke. Thirdhand smoke is the residue left behind after someone smokes, which can cling to surfaces like carpets, furniture, and clothing. #### Secondhand Smoke - **Chemical Exposure**: Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 chemical compounds, with at least 250 known to cause diseases. - **Health Risks**: Exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of lung cancer, emphysema, and heart disease. It makes blood stickier, raises bad cholesterol, and damages blood vessels. #### Thirdhand Smoke - **Residue**: Thirdhand smoke residue builds up over time on soft and hard surfaces. It can’t be completely removed by airing out a room or regular cleaning. - **Health Risks**: Thirdhand smoke contains carcinogens that can damage human DNA and harm organs and cells. It raises biomarkers linked to skin diseases like psoriasis and contact dermatitis. It also boosts biomarkers linked to oxidative stress, which can lead to heart disease, cancer, and atherosclerosis. #### Vulnerable Groups - **Children**: Kids are particularly at risk because their bodies are still growing, and they breathe faster than adults. Secondhand smoke exposure can lead to respiratory infections, severe asthma, and other serious conditions. - **Pregnant Women**: Smoking during pregnancy is dangerous for the developing baby, leading to premature delivery, low birth weight, and other complications. #### Prevention - **Avoidance**: Stay away from people who smoke and encourage smokers to quit. Smoking should be done outside, far from others. - **Home Environment**: Keep your home smoke-free, especially if you have children. Remove or replace soft surfaces that can contain thirdhand smoke residue and thoroughly clean hard surfaces. By taking these steps, you can help lower the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals from secondhand and thirdhand smoke.