Is staying in AC for long ruining your skin? Dermat shares simple tips and tricks to protect your skin from damage

Published on: Apr 2, 2025, 09:12:10 IST

By Sanya Panwar

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Use a hydrating moisturiser to combat dryness and dehydration if staying in AC for a long duration to maintain skin balance. (Freepik)

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.”

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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.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sanya Panwar
With a keen eye for detail and a heart for storytelling, Sanya is a seasoned lifestyle journalist who has spent over a decade documenting the intersection of aesthetics and substance. Since stepping into the media world in 2012, she has cultivated a career defined by versatility, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for what makes life both beautiful and meaningful. Over the last many years, she has navigated the fast-paced realms of health, wellness, fitness and fashion while pivoting seamlessly into the nuances of decor and travel. Her work often explores the deeper layers of modern living, delving into art and decor trends that transform spaces, insightful perspectives on gender, parenting, and mental health, immersive travel narratives that capture the essence of a destination. A self-proclaimed aesthetics enthusiast, Sanya doesn't just report on trends — she analyses them. Whether she’s identifying the next shift in fitness or discovering a breakthrough in design, she uses her platform to spark meaningful conversations that resonate with a contemporary audience. Sanya is an alumna of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai, where she honed the investigative rigour she brings to her lifestyle reporting today. When she isn't chasing deadlines or conducting interviews, Sanya practices what she preaches. You’ll likely find her sipping matcha, practicing yoga, or scouting the newest cafes. Above all, she finds her balance in nature — whether it's a quiet hike or a moment of reflection in the outdoors, she remains constantly inspired by the tranquillity of the natural world.Read More

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