Bonjour Beauties! The sweltering summer heat has arrived, and if you’re anything like us (we know you are) then you will be enjoying the cool indoors with continuous air conditioning (AC), providing a cool escape from the outside temperatures.
However, while AC keeps us comfortable, it can also wreak havoc on our skin. Many women notice that their skin feels dry and uncomfortable after spending time in air-conditioned spaces.
We asked Dr. Costi for his take on this subject, along with some tips to maintain glowing, hydrated skin all summer long.
The primary function of an air conditioner is to cool the air by removing humidity. “While this feels refreshing, it significantly reduces the moisture in the air, and this low humidity environment can dry out your skin, leading to increased water loss from the epidermis (or the upper layer of the skin,) causing less water retention within these layers.” explains Dr. Costi.
This results in dry skin and hair, chapping of lips, dry eyes and premature ageing of the skin. Dry air can also aggravate skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, allergies and rosacea.
If you notice that your face is becoming drier from exposure to AC, here are some effective tips to keep your skin healthy:
1. Avoid hot water: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Instead, wash your face with lukewarm water to avoid drying out your skin.
2. Reach for a Hydrating Face Mask: Incorporate a hydrating face mask into your routine for an extra boost of moisture.
IDUN Minerals Mineral Moisturizing Face Mask envelopes skin in a layer of deep recovery and restoration boasting a lush, vegan, creamy texture.
3. Use a Face Mist: A face mist is a quick way to refresh and hydrate your skin throughout the day.
Vichy’s refreshing, soothing and hydrating face mist infused with antioxidants can soothe and hydrate your skin with just a few spritzes.
4. Try a Face Serum: Face serums, especially those with hyaluronic acid, can help maintain your skin’s moisture.
Designed to create a protective layer to help restore skin’s youthful appearance, the NeoStrata Bionic Face Serum helps replenish skin’s moisture barrier and protect against environmental factors.
5. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture back into the air with a humidifier can counteract the drying effects of AC. Place a humidifier in your bedroom or living space to keep the air – and your skin – hydrated (especially if you sleep with the AC turned on.)
Spending long hours at the office? Travelling by plane? Sitting in a cold movie theatre? These tips will also come in handy!
1. Keep a cream with you: Apply a rich moisturizer every few hours or whenever your skin feels dry. Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vitamin E. Remember to moisturize exposed areas like your hands, elbows, feet, and knees.
2. Avoid direct exposure: Avoid sitting directly in front of the AC vent to prevent your skin from drying out further. Ensure that AC filters are cleaned regularly to maintain air quality.
3. Choose a gentle cleanser: Swap soap-based cleansers for cream or non-foaming cleansers to avoid stripping your skin of natural oils.
4. Pamper your skin with oil massages: Treat yourself to an oil massage once a week. Oils penetrate deep into your skin, protecting it from the harsh effects of dry air.
Got personal burning questions for our favourite dermatologist? Beauties, be sure to get in touch with Dr. Costi and book your personal appointment for happy, healthy skin that lasts all year long 😊
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