With the start of April, air conditioning (AC) systems have become active in many places, providing relief from summer heat in homes, offices, cars, and shopping centers. However, prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environments can negatively affect skin condition.
In a recent interview, dermatologist Dr. Shefali Saini detailed the potential harm that AC causes to the skin. According to her, if a person suddenly feels dryness, tightness, or increased skin sensitivity, they should pay attention not only to the weather but also to their daily routine. Prolonged time spent in air-conditioned offices, cars, or rooms can disrupt the skin's natural barrier.
Our skin has a natural protective layer that includes skin cells, lipids, and natural moisturizing factors. This layer is essential for retaining moisture and protecting against external influences. The air conditioner reduces the humidity level (hygroscopicity) in the room, leading to accelerated evaporation of water from the skin's surface. This process is called transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
With prolonged exposure, the skin barrier weakens, and the skin stops retaining moisture effectively. Initially, this may manifest as tightness after washing, and then the skin becomes dry, dull, and rough. Some people may also notice slight peeling or increased sensitivity.
People often confuse 'dry' and 'dehydrated' skin, although they are different conditions. Dry skin is a skin type characterized by insufficient production of natural oils, or sebum. Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a temporary condition caused by a lack of water within the cells.
Thus, even people with oily or acne-prone skin can experience dehydration. If the face looks oily by midday but still feels tight or uncomfortable, it may indicate a lack of moisture in the skin and a weakened barrier.
The risk of dryness from air conditioning can affect anyone, but some groups are more vulnerable. These include those whose skin is naturally dry or sensitive, as well as people with eczema or a weak skin barrier. Changes appear most quickly in those who use acne treatments such as retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. A particularly high-risk group consists of employees who spend most of their time in centrally air-conditioned offices, as well as passengers who frequently travel by air and are exposed to cabin air.
Skin usually starts signaling excessive dryness before it becomes obvious. If you notice the following changes, it is crucial to pay attention to your skincare.
Many try to use expensive cosmetic products when dryness appears, but dermatologists emphasize that regularly adhering to several basic habits is far more important. It is necessary to use mild cleansing products that remove dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. If you feel severe tightness or discomfort after washing, your cleanser might be too harsh.
It is critically important to apply moisturizer regularly immediately after washing while the skin is still slightly damp; this helps maintain moisture levels in the tissues. Lip care should also not be forgotten, as their protective layer is thinner than facial skin, and they lack sebaceous glands, making them susceptible to dehydration. Regular use of lip balm is essential.
Furthermore, one should not forgo using sunscreen just because they are at home or in the office. UVA rays can penetrate through window glass, contributing to premature aging and skin pigmentation. Overall, if you spend a lot of time in an air-conditioned space, you should stick to a simple and consistent skincare routine: in the morning, after gentle cleansing, apply a moisturizer, followed by a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Instead of applying many active products simultaneously, strengthening the skin barrier should be the priority.