Air conditioners help cool and create a pleasant feeling on hot days, but can also make the air in the room dry, thereby dehydrating the skin and duodenal lining, causing a feeling of dryness and discomfort, according to Onlymyhealth.
Air conditioners reduce humidity
Air conditioners not only cool but also remove moisture in the air. This is the reason why air in air conditioners is often very dry, the humidity can drop below the ideal level (30-50%). When the air is dry, your body will lose water through your skin and mucous membranes faster than usual.
Your skin is affected first
The skin has a natural lipid layer that helps keep moisture, but when in a dry space, the water on the skin's surface blooms quickly, making the skin tight, flaky, itchy and can irritate skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis. Even oily skin is affected when the oil gland is stimulated to secrete more, leading to acne.
Rectum and respiratory tract are also affected
The lining of the nose, throat and eyes all need a certain amount of moisture to maintain health. Dry air conditioners dehydrate these lining, causing itching, coughing, stuffy nose, bleeding nose and increasing the risk of sinusitis, respiratory infections or allergies.
Harmful effects of long-term exposure
Sitting in a air conditioning room for many hours a day causes a long-term imbalance of moisture. A dry, cracked nose, red eyes and skin that need constant moisturization are common signs. In addition, people with asthma or allergies may be more affected.
How to protect yourself when using air conditioners?
Drink enough water: Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water, herbal tea or eating plenty of water fruits such as watermelon, cucumber.
Use a humidifier: If you are in a room with a lot of air conditioners, a humidifier will help balance the humidity of the air.
Moisturize regularly: Apply a moisturizer or spray a mineral to keep your skin moist, especially after washing your face or bathing.
Physical salt water spray: Helps soothe and moisturize the nasal mucosa, reduce dryness and irritation.
Out often: Take in natural air, open windows if you can, give your skin and respiratory tract a rest.
Monitor indoor humidity: Use a humidifier to know when the air is too dry and need to add moisture.
Note
Air conditioners make modern life more comfortable but also pose a risk of drying out the skin and developing sinusitis if consumed in excess. As long as you pay attention to maintaining moisture balance and changing some daily habits, you can completely enjoy the coolness without having to worry about skin and respiratory health.
