Dry skin from AC: what actually helps

In the UAE, most of the day is spent moving between heat outside and cool, dry air inside. Homes, offices, cars and malls all run the AC for most of the year. Many people notice the result on their skin: a tight feeling after the shower, flaky shins, rough elbows and an itch that gets worse at night.

Why AC dries out your skin

Air conditioning cools the air and also pulls moisture out of it. Skin constantly loses a little water to the air around it, and the drier the air, the faster that happens. The outer layer of skin works like a barrier made of skin cells and natural oils. When it loses too much water, it starts to feel tight, look dull and flake.

Some daily habits add to the dryness without us noticing:

• Long, very hot showers
• Strong cleansers that leave skin squeaky and tight
• Scrubbing every day
• Skipping moisturiser, or applying it hours later
• Sitting right under an AC vent at work or in the car

Change how you shower

The shower is where most dry skin starts, and where the easiest fixes are.

• Keep showers to around five to ten minutes, with lukewarm water.
• Use a mild soap and focus it on the areas that sweat. Arms and shins usually need less.
• Choose a soft wash for daily use. A sponge soap gives a cushioned lather without a scratchy feel.
• Exfoliate once or twice a week at most when your skin is dry. A loofah soap is enough for rough elbows, knees and heels.
• Pat skin dry rather than rubbing it with the towel.

Check your soap or body wash

Lots of foam does not mean better cleaning. Many body washes use strong foaming agents called sulfates, such as SLS and SLES. They are widely used and considered safe in rinse-off products, but some people with dry or sensitive skin find that they leave skin feeling tight. If that sounds like you, a sulfate-free cleanser or a glycerin-based soap may feel more comfortable.

Glycerin is a humectant, which means it draws water towards the skin. That is why glycerin soaps often feel less drying than harsher bars. Brawish loofah soaps are glycerin bars, and our sponge soaps are made without SLES, sulfates or parabens. Fragrance is another thing to watch: if your skin reacts easily, test any new product on a small area first.

Moisturise at the right moment

Timing matters more than most people think. Apply your moisturiser within about three minutes of leaving the shower, while your skin is still a little damp. This helps hold in the water your skin just took up.

• For very dry areas, a thicker cream works better than a light lotion.
• Look for ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter or ceramides.
• Keep a small cream at your desk for hands and arms during long AC days.
• A humidifier in the bedroom can make nights more comfortable.

Drinking enough water matters for your health, but on its own it rarely fixes dry skin. What you do in and after the shower counts for much more.

When dry skin needs a doctor

Ordinary dryness usually settles within a couple of weeks of gentler habits. See a doctor if your skin cracks or bleeds, if the itch keeps you awake, if you see red, scaly patches, or if nothing improves. These can be signs of eczema or another condition that needs proper advice.

If dryness persists or is painful, please see a dermatologist.