KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 25 -- While public health warnings during haze episodes typically focus on respiratory health, medical experts are sounding the alarm on the hidden, often overlooked impact of pollutants on the body's largest organ: the skin, as well as the scalp and eyes.

As air quality fluctuates, experts told Malay Mail that fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5 - particles measuring 2.5 micrometres in diameter - poses a significant risk that goes far beyond surface-level dirt.

According to UM Specialist Centre consultant dermatologist Dr Nik Aimee Azizah Faheem, these tiny particles are insidious.

"Haze is not just the usual dust and pollutants; it has PM2.5 particles which are tiny, 2.5 micrometres in diameter. These particle...