Almost everyone can agree that air conditioning is a blessing during spells of hot weather. However, working or sleeping for long stretches of time in a room with air conditioning may leave your skin dehydrated and extremely dry.
When your skin’s water content decreases and evaporates, your skin will start feeling tight, look rough and inflamed, and begin to flake or peel.
You will also notice the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, and if the condition is severe, deep cracks may develop which in extreme cases, can bleed.
Below are five practical and simple options that help keep your skin hydrated when using the air conditioner.
1. Use an air humidifier
While switching on the air conditioner creates a comfortable temperature in the room, it also slowly dries out your skin.
One way to keep skin hydrated is by installing an air humidifier in the room to help balance the moisture level of the air while the air conditioner is running.
There are various types of air humidifiers you can purchase, ranging from compact-sized ones to industrial strength ones.
You may choose to fill the air humidifier with plain water or infuse the water with essential oils of your choice.
2. Drink lots of water
Most offices provide employees with drinking water from filtered water systems or water purifier systems. So make the most of this convenience to keep yourself well hydrated during your work hours.
Water is essential not only for the largest organ of your body which is the skin but also to support the growth of body cells.
The ideal amount of water a person should drink is eight glasses a day, or whenever you feel thirsty. Also remember to replenish any water lost from the natural processes of perspiration and urination.
3. Use a moisturiser
Another great way to prevent dryness when using air conditioning is by applying a face moisturiser or a body lotion on your hands, feet and legs.
Moisturisers help hydrate skin as well as minimise the appearance of fine lines and premature wrinkles as well as help prevent the early onset of these conditions.
4. Open windows frequently
Many wrongly assume that it is unnecessary to open the windows in rooms with air conditioning.
Opening windows frequently when not utilising the air conditioner will ensure the flow of fresh air into the room and help balance the air’s moisture content.
Why not open the window when you are not in the room, and close the window once the air conditioner is switched back on? A good level of moisture in the room helps prevent skin from becoming dehydrated.
5. Prepare water buckets
Placing buckets of water under an air conditioner unit helps prevent skin from drying as the air conditioner sucks the water out of the bucket rather than from your skin.
This option also helps keep the air in the space moisture-rich.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com and was reviewed by Hello Doktor. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.