DERMATOLOGICAL conditions in polar environments are gaining new attention as research missions to the Arctic and Antarctic expand. A recent narrative review highlights the significant skin-related risks faced by polar explorers and researchers due to environmental and logistical challenges unique to these regions.
The study examined literature from PubMed and Google Scholar between December 2024 and January 2025 to evaluate dermatologic conditions arising from cold exposure, UV radiation, and healthcare delivery limitations at the Earth’s poles. The high reflectivity of snow and ice combined with ozone thinning increases UV exposure, raising concerns about heightened skin cancer risk among polar personnel. Additionally, the extreme cold predisposes individuals to frostbite and cold-induced dermatoses.
Nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, which are common in remote expeditions, can also compromise skin health. The review found that these explorers often face significant barriers to dermatological care due to geographic isolation and limited medical infrastructure. As polar missions become more frequent and longer in duration, the role of dermatologists is evolving to include protocol development, pre-deployment training, and telemedicine support.
This review calls on the medical community to proactively address the dermatologic needs of those working in extreme environments and to develop targeted preventive strategies to safeguard skin health at the poles.
Reference:
Scheinkman R et al. Arctic & Antarctic dermatology: a narrative review of cutaneous conditions of polar explorers and researchers. Arch Dermatol Res. 2025;317(1):664.
