Apr 02, 2025 09:12 AM IST
Are you an AC user who sits for long hours in air conditioned spaces? Dehydrated skin could be a side-effect. Read on for a dermatologist’s expert advice.
Did you know that staying in air conditioning (AC) for long periods can have negative effect on your skin? In an April 1 episode of the Figuring Out With Raj Shamani podcast, dermatologist Manjot Marwah discussed how AC affects skin. AC can dry out the air, leading to dehydration and dryness in the skin, especially if you don’t moisturise regularly, she said, and added that you should add moisture back into the air with a humidifier to counteract the drying effects of AC. Also read | How too much air conditioning can ruin your health; know 7 side-effects
How AC can impact your skin health
Manjot said, “AC leads to a dry atmosphere. So, you need to have a humidifier with it because your skin has two things — one is water balance and the other is oil balance. People with oily skin have a high oil balance, while those with dry skin have a lower oil balance. Water balance is something that is independent of oil balance. So, even those with oily skin can end up feeling dryness on their skin if their water balance is low. This can cause dehydrated skin. So, when you stay in AC, the chances of dehydrated skin are higher.”
Tips to protect skin for AC users
However, by being mindful of the effects of AC on your skin and taking steps to protect it, you can still enjoy the comfort of air conditioning while maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Manjot shared how.
When asked whether one should sit in the AC for long, the dermatologist said, “No, you should not sit in AC for long. But if it is unavoidable, then you must keep a moisturiser with you and use it often.” Additionally, you can take breaks from AC and spend time outdoors (with sun protection) to maintain a healthy skin balance.
Experiencing dry and flaky skin even without AC? Click here to know how you can keep your skin hydrated.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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