Sleeping in blasting AC? Do these 6 things to protect your skin

Summer is hurling its heat balls at us in the North Indian region and we have no option but to stay cooped up indoors. Even sitting locked inside won’t provide us much relief unless we turn the Ac on. However, the skin becomes dry when exposed to air conditioning for an extended period of time. This happens because the skin’s moisture content is depleted after prolonged exposure to AC. If sufficient care for your skin is not performed in this condition, it will appear textured and lifeless over time. The radiance of the skin diminishes when the skin cells become lifeless. To know about some skincare tips to reverse the side effects of air conditioners, we got in touch with a skin care expert.

Dr Vidushi Jain, dermatologist, medical head at Dermalinks, Ghaziabad, spoke to Health Shots about the risks involved with longtime use of air conditioners.

Why should one reduce the time spent in indoor spaces with AC systems?

“Sweating is an extremely beneficial process to the human body. Sweating is alleviated in the AC because of the humidity and low temperature. As a result, the body is unable to eliminate toxins that are superfluous. AC also reduces the amount of natural oil secretion in the skin at the same time.” says Dr Jain.

“Another side effect of air conditioners are skin problems like fine lines, blemishes, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Simultaneously, the skin ages twice as quickly due to a lack of appropriate hydration,” she adds.

Following these tips will help you avoid the side-effects of air conditioners on your skin and hair:

1. Wash your face

Splash water on your face before turning on the air conditioner. This is the easiest way to prevent the side effects of air conditioners. You can also use a face wash to clean your face. After cleaning your face, make sure to wipe it dry, and then apply a thick hydrating moisturizer. One can also try slugging on their skin that will prevent trans-epidermal water loss. Make an effort to exclusively buy moisturizers that are fragrance-free.

2. Spritz your face with water

To retain the moisture in your face, spritz water or a hydrating mist every one or two hours. You can also mix rose water, glycerine, and aloe vera gel to make your own hydrating tonic for the skin. It can also be sprayed on the face throughout the day for instant hydration.

3. Take a break

Easiest way to protect your skin from the ill effects of AC is to turn it off from time to time. Take a break from air conditioning once the room is cool enough. Instead of sitting in the AC all day, take a 5-10 minute break every two hours.

4. Invest your time in skincare

“Follow a proper nighttime skincare regime before hitting the bed. This will not only nourish your skin but prevent the side effects of air conditioners from causing further harm. Always use a serum, moisturizer and layer it up with a facial oil before going to bed,” says Dr Jain.

5. Don’t neglect your body

Moisturize not only the face, but also the rest of the body that is exposed. Apply a moisturizer or hydrating hand cream every two hours, if possible. At night, rub in some coconut oil or shea butter on your skin.

6. Keep yourself hydrated

Drinking more water and fruit juices is not only great to beat the heat but it provides enough water in your body to refill for the loss of it while sitting in the AC. Dr Jain suggests drinking plenty of fluids to keep your skin moisturised throughout the day.