Is Air Conditioning Drying Out Your Skin? Read These 6 Expert Skincare Tips
Love the aircon? Unfortunately, it may be causing you skin problems
Even though air conditioning is practically a necessity in hot and humid Singapore, it may be taking a toll on your skin. Unfortunately, it dries out the air and, in turn, your skin.
On top of that, if you're the type to take a nice warm shower to get ready for the day (or for bed), you might be surprised to know that this can also strip your skin and hair of moisture – double whammy!
The solution seems obvious – switch off that air conditioner. However, if you can't switch it off for difficult reasons (e.g. my baby can only fall asleep in an air-conditioned room, or, it's just plain too hot), there are ways to reduce the dryness that's wrecking havoc for your skin.
The simple answer is more hydration, skincare expert Belinda Lo elaborates on how best to get that into your skin.
Even though all we want to do at the end of a long day (or in a hotel during a staycation) is soak in a long, hot bath, Belinda says this is not ideal when it comes to your skin.
"Hot water feels great... but it strips skin of its natural oils." Try to put on a timer and limit your hot showers and baths. Belinda also recommends applying moisturiser immediately after your bath or shower, patting the skin dry, as it soaks in quicker.
"Avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances, alcohol and alphahydroxy acid (AHAs), all of which dry out the skin," advises Belinda.
Products containing oils can help to reduce your skin's moisture loss. "For example, choose an all-natural oil cleanser over harsh foaming cleansers to prevent stripping of your natural oils."
Get a personal or room humidifier to help add moisture into the air and, in turn, help to prevent your skin drying out, suggests Belinda.
Using a good hydrating moisturiser can prevent skin from drying out and becoming rough and scaly.
"A good one will also work to trap existing moisture and at the same time, draw moisture from the air to keep skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5," says Belinda.
Water, that is! It's easier to pile on all those serums and moisturisers, but it's just as important to get a minimum of two litres of water a day.
"Our skin loses more moisture in [cooler weather]. Staying hydrated is essential to maintain healthy skin," adds Belinda.
Avoid lacklustre, dull skin by adding a rich serum to your routine.
Belinda's favourite is "a brightening serum that contains a good dose of vitamin C to help brighten and balance your skin tone".
Text: Bauer Syndication