With summers getting harsher every year, air conditioning has become a ubiquitous part of modern life. While it is indispensable in many homes, offices, and public spaces, prolonged exposure can significantly impact your skin health. Let’s explore potential risks and ways to counter them.
What AC does to your skin
Causes dryness and dehydration: AC units remove moisture from the air to perform their cooling functions. This decrease in humidity levels can damage your skin barrier, resulting in tight, flaky, itchy, dull and rough skin.
Increases sensitivity: Dry skin is more prone to irritants and allergies. I have noticed this in many patients who have visited me during the summer. The more time they spent in AC homes and offices, the more sensitive they became to allergies, asthma attacks (for asthmatic patients), acne and bacterial infections such as legionnaire’s disease.
Accelerates ageing: People who spend excessive time within air conditioned set-ups tend to age faster. This is because a lack of moisture in the air can cause the skin to lose its plumpness and elasticity, causing premature signs of ageing to show up. Wrinkles and fine lines may appear sooner or more pronounced.
Exacerbates existing skin conditions: People who are prone to autoimmune skin diseases like psoriasis or lichen planus will notice these problems flare up again because of prolonged exposure to ACs. Dryness only makes such skin conditions worse.
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What are the solutions?
Hydration: Your skin’s health is the first indicator of your body’s health. So, keep it hydrated by drinking three to four litres of water throughout the day. Consume drinks such as coconut water and lemonade to replenish the electrolytes in your body on a hot day.
Use humidifiers, coolers, and water pots: As the name suggests, humidifiers help replenish moisture in the air. Place a humidifier in your home all night long or in your office for a few hours to maintain optimal humidity levels. Consider switching to a cooler instead of an AC because it retains more moisture. Another alternative is to keep an open pot filled with water in your room. The resulting moisture can help heal a dry and damaged skin barrier.
Make skincare routine adjustments: Use an emollient-rich moisturiser to lock in hydration. Look for moisturisers with glycerine, hyaluronic acid and ceramides. As for cleansers, look for those labelled gentle and hydrating as they will ensure your skin’s natural oils aren’t stripped while you wash your face. Next, apply sunscreen (even indoors) as UV rays can penetrate window panes and damage your skin.
Diet and lifestyle: Incorporate seasonal fruits and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins (especially A, C, and E) for glowing, plump skin. Also, ensure that you get adequate sleep so that your skin can be allowed to repair and regenerate.
Burn camphor: Camphor’s anti-inflammatory properties can benefit your skin tremendously. You can also use it to repel insects and relax in its calming aroma.
Surround yourself with oxygen-enhancing plants: Have a few oxygen-enhancing plants – such as monstera, snake plant, and aloe vera – in or around AC rooms. They will not only help you breathe better but will also add a good amount of moisture to the air.
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Tackling temperature changes
Be careful while exiting an air-conditioned room to venture into the heat. People often exit AC offices to walk to the metro station or the car park. Or step outside for tea and then come back to their cold offices or homes. These drastic temperature changes can harm your skin, but there are multiple ways to protect yourself from these after-effects.
Avoid hot showers: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and irritation. Always opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time.
Maintain consistent temperature: Always keep the AC in your room between 20-22o. Maintaining this temperature is key as it helps your skin adjust when you come in from a harsh temperature of 40/50o.
By maintaining hydration, adjusting your skincare routine, and incorporating protective measures, you can enjoy the benefits of air conditioning without compromising the health of your skin.
Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a dermatologist, anti-allergy specialist, laser surgeon and internationally trained aesthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)
Thank you Dr.
Thank God tht Doc has given solutions also else instilling fear of ACs in this weather wud have been terrible!
Yes humidifiers are good n a simple pot of water in the room can help