The Summer Skin Care Mistake: Air Conditioning Woes for Women

10 September, 2024

Many people make these common mistakes when it comes to skincare while in an air-conditioned environment. If you spend several hours a day in air-conditioning, read on to avoid making these mistakes and to improve your skincare routine.

1. Entering Air-Conditioning with Wet Skin

After showering or washing your face, it is important to thoroughly dry your body and face before entering an air-conditioned room. Stepping into a cool environment with wet skin can not only pose health risks but also lead to significant skin dehydration. The remaining water on your skin will quickly evaporate in the dry, cold air, causing your skin to become drier and more prone to aging.

2. Applying Moisturizer Only After Entering Air-Conditioning

During the summer, some people avoid using moisturizers to prevent a greasy feeling. Instead, they wait until their skin feels dry and cool in an air-conditioned room before applying skincare products. However, by this point, their skin has become overly dry, and moisturizers may not be as effective. It is recommended to apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing your face while your skin is still slightly damp, as this is the best way to lock in moisture.

3. Neglecting Sunscreen

The cool and sunless environment of air-conditioning may give a false sense of security regarding sun protection. However, up to 90% of UV rays can penetrate through glass, walls, and curtains. In addition to these harmful rays, the light from phone screens, computer monitors, and lighting fixtures can also be detrimental to your skin. Applying sunscreen daily, even when indoors, is the best way to protect your skin.

Ways to Improve Your Skin in a Cold Environment:

– Facial Mist: While you may not be able to apply moisturizer multiple times a day, you can use a facial mist to add moisture to your skin. Keep a bottle of facial mist in your purse, on your desk, and spritz your face throughout the day to combat the dry, cold air.

– Drink More Water: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Staying hydrated will keep your skin moist and supple, and it will also reduce fatigue.

– Face Masks: If you previously used face masks once or twice a week, consider increasing the frequency to three to four times a week when exposed to frequent air-conditioning. In addition to sheet masks, try using sleeping masks at night for comprehensive skin hydration.

– Exercise: When you spend a lot of time in air-conditioning and are less active, your body tends to produce less sweat. This can lead to a buildup of toxins in your body, resulting in dull skin and acne. Make sure to engage in light exercises, and increase the intensity during the weekends for a healthier body and skin.

Frequently asked questions

Air conditioning can be detrimental to the skin as it removes moisture from the air, resulting in dry skin. This can lead to a range of skin issues, including dehydration, irritation, and an increase in skin pH levels.

The cool, dry air from air conditioning can cause the skin’s pH levels to rise, making it more alkaline. This alteration in pH can disrupt the skin’s natural protective barrier, leading to potential issues such as dryness, irritation, and even bacterial infections.

Dry skin is not just a matter of aesthetics; it can lead to serious skin problems. Itchiness, flakiness, and a feeling of tightness are common symptoms. In more severe cases, dry skin can crack and bleed, creating openings for bacteria to enter and cause infections.

Yes, extended exposure to air conditioning can cause or exacerbate other health issues. These include respiratory problems, eye irritation, headaches, and even muscle stiffness and joint pain.

To counteract the drying effects of air conditioning, it’s important to keep your skin well-hydrated. Use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser and avoid long, hot showers, as they can further dry out your skin. Apply a good moisturizer regularly, and consider using a humidifier to add moisture back into the air.