Air conditioning and heating - the impact on the skin

Air conditioning and heating - the impact on the skin

Modern air conditioning and heating systems improve the comfort of life, but they can have a negative impact on our skin. Temperature changes, dry air and lack of proper hydration can lead to irritation, dryness and even accelerated skin aging. How to care for your skin in air conditioning and heating conditions? Here is a comprehensive guide to skin care in an artificial climate.
 
How do air conditioning and heating affect the skin?
 1. Air conditioning - cool but dry air Air conditioning lowers the temperature in the room, while removing moisture from the air. Prolonged exposure to such conditions causes:
❌ Dry skin - air conditioning removes natural moisture from the epidermis.
❌ Weakening of the hydrolipid barrier - the skin becomes more sensitive and prone to irritation.
❌ Increased sebum production - in response to dryness, the skin can produce more sebum, which leads to clogged pores.
❌ Irritation and redness – particularly sensitive skin may react with redness and a feeling of tightness.
2. Heating – high temperature and dry air In autumn and winter, indoor heating causes the air humidity to drop, which has a negative effect on the skin:
❌ Severe dryness – dry air draws moisture from the skin, leading to flaking and irritation.
❌ Exacerbation of skin problems – people with eczema, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis may notice a deterioration in their skin condition.
❌ Broken blood vessels – sudden changes in temperature (e.g. leaving a warm room into a cold one) can lead to dilation and bursting of blood vessels.
❌ Accelerated skin aging – dehydration causes loss of elasticity and wrinkles.
How to protect your skin from air conditioning and heating?
To minimise the negative effects of air conditioning and heating, it is worth implementing appropriate care and a few simple habits.
1. Moisturizing the skin – the basis of protection
What to use?
✔ Hyaluronic acid – attracts water and prevents its loss.
✔ Ceramides – rebuild the skin's protective barrier.
✔ Glycerin and allantoin – soothe irritations and moisturize.
✔ Vegetable oils (e.g. jojoba, argan, avocado) – help retain moisture in the skin.
How to use?
  • In the morning and evening, apply a richer moisturizing cream or serum with hyaluronic acid.
  • If you work in an air-conditioned office, keep a moisturizing mist nearby and spray your face during the day.
  • In winter, choose fatter cream formulas that create a protective layer.

2. Protecting the hydrolipid barrier

Prolonged exposure to air-conditioned or heated rooms weakens the skin's protective barrier.

  • Avoid aggressive cleansers – choose gentle emulsions and oils for washing your face. 
  • Use toners and moisturizing essences that support the natural functions of the skin. 
  • Use moisturizing masks once a week (e.g. with algae, hyaluronic acid, honey).

3. Air humidification – the key to healthy skin

Air conditioning and heating drastically reduce the level of humidity in rooms.

  • Use a humidifier – maintaining humidity at 40-60% helps the skin maintain proper hydration.
  • Place bowls of water on radiators – a simple way to increase air humidity. 
  • In the office, you can put potted plants on your desk, which improve air quality.

4. Skin protection during the day

  • Use sunscreens (SPF 30-50) – skin exposed to artificial lighting and UV radiation from screens also requires protection.
  • Drink plenty of water and herbal infusions – skin hydration starts from the inside.
  • Use lip balms and hand creams – lips and hands are particularly susceptible to dryness.

5. Effective skin care products for air conditioning and heating

✅ Hyaluronic acid serum – moisturizes and fills wrinkles.

✅ Ceramide creams – rebuild the skin's natural barrier.

✅ Face oils – help retain water in the epidermis.

✅ Thermal water mists – refresh the skin during the day.

✅ Night masks – have a regenerating effect during sleep.

Summary

Both air conditioning and heating can have a negative effect on the skin, causing it to dry out, irritate and age faster. Regular moisturising, protecting the hydrolipid barrier and maintaining the right air humidity play a key role. Adjusting your skincare to the environmental conditions will ensure that your skin remains healthy, moisturised and resistant to negative external factors.

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