As summer heat waves are here, we find solace in our air-conditioned homes. But have you noticed your skin feeling drier after a full day in the cool air? You’re not alone.
How Air Conditioner Affects Your Skin
Air conditioning can indeed have negative effects on our skin. A 2020 study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that nearly a third of the 1,000 participants reported skin disorders linked to air conditioning. Although the study didn’t specify the exact disorders, it’s reasonable to assume that dryness and irritation were common.
In another study published on PubMed, researchers observed that dry air in air-conditioned environments worsened conditions like senile xerosis, dermatitis, and skin roughness. The lack of humidity in air-conditioned spaces is a significant factor. Air conditioners remove moisture from the air, leading to an environment with less water vapor. This is problematic because our skin relies on a certain level of humidity to stay hydrated.
You see, our skin has a built-in system that draws moisture from the air. When the air lacks moisture, due to the AC, the skin resorts to drawing water from its deeper layers to maintain hydration. As this moisture moves to the skin’s surface, it evaporates into the atmosphere, leading to a phenomenon called “transepidermal water loss.” This process results in dry, flaky skin and can exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema.
Moving frequently between air-conditioned and hot, humid environments can also stress the skin’s barrier and cause it to react defensively. Also, if you sleep with the AC on, your skin has no time to recover from the dryness during the night. This continuous exposure can exacerbate any skin issues and make your skin less able to repair itself.
To mitigate the effects of air conditioning on your skin, some experts recommend using air humidifiers in conjunction with your AC. Humidifiers add moisture back into the air, counteracting the drying effect of the AC. Keeping indoor plants can also help, as they naturally release moisture into the air.
How to Protect Your Skin from AC
- Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help maintain skin hydration.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
- Moisturize Regularly: Use a good quality moisturizer to create a barrier against dryness. Preferably, look for moisturizers that contain occlusives (like squalane and dimethicone), as these create a protective film over the skin’s surface that locks in moisture and prevents it from evaporating. Here you can find some great occlusive moisturizers. Use them at night only, as some can feel a bit heavy.
- Limit AC Usage: Try to use air conditioning only when necessary.
- Skincare Routine: Opt for gentle, hydrating products and avoid harsh cleansers with alcohol, sulfates, or fragrances, that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
- Indoor Plants: Consider keeping plants indoors to increase humidity levels.
