ACs lessen your skin’s ability to produce oil, which results in dry, dull skin.
While there are side effects to using an air conditioner, the excess heat during the summer months makes it impossible to do without one.
The rising temperatures and warm atmosphere have compelled more and more people to install an air conditioner in their homes. Consequently, you spend a major part of the day inside the cool and comfortable rooms. But did you know that this temporary relaxation is actually affecting your skin and hair adversely? With air conditioning, the ambient temperature drops way below the actual temperature outside. This causes your body to stop sweating, and as a result, the toxins do not escape through the skin.
Additionally, it lessens your skin’s ability to produce oil, which results in dry, dull skin. Therefore, you must have felt the need to use a moisturiser way too often. Furthermore, the AC removes humidity from the environment, and our skin tissues get dehydrated, leaving the skin dry, chapped, and prone to wrinkles.
Not just the skin, air conditioners also tend to dry out hair. You must have noticed the excess frizz in the summer months when you are more exposed to the AC. You tend to experience more hair fall, and split ends, and your hair loses its shine. While there are side effects to using an air conditioner, the excess heat during the summer months makes it impossible to do without one. Hence, you must take steps to prevent damage and protect your skin and hair.
Here is what you can do-
- Try to limit your exposure to an air conditioner. For instance, take breaks, leave the room after some time, and switch it off. If you are sleeping with the AC on, consider turning it to auto mode so that it turns off once the room reaches a comfortable temperature.
- Once you turn off the AC, wash your face with water, clean up with a face wash, and do not forget to apply a hydrating moisturiser afterwards. Additionally, you should follow a strict skincare routine before you go to bed. This will keep your skin nourished.
- After you wash your hair, make sure to use a hydrating, thick conditioner. You can also opt for leave-in conditioners that will protect your strands when you are exposed to the blasting AC. Try not to use hair styling tools like straighteners, dryers, etc. This can further dry out your hair and damage it. Oiling your hair once a week is a good alternative.
- Drink enough fluids and water throughout the day. It is commonly seen that people tend to reduce their water consumption as they do not feel thirsty in a chilly room. However, the body needs more fluid to keep itself hydrated at all times.
