The climate is all around us, which is why it’s important to think about the external factors that we are choosing to immerse ourselves in. We’re talking about our beloved air-conditioning and central heating. In tropical and desert climates, it’s relieving to get out of the intensely hot atmosphere and into a comforting air-conditioned room. It’s the other way around, too. After being in the rain, snow, or cold all day, sometimes all you want is to curl up in a cozy heated space. This is why Pour Moi accounts for man-made conditions in its climate smart formulations. We know that it’s inevitable. Our convenient lifestyles allow us these pleasures but not without some drawbacks. We’re here to make the playing field equal.
Going From 0 to 100 Real Quick
Going from one extreme to another is never a smooth transition for skin. When traveling or moving to a new climate, for example, skin can lash out in unhealthy ways as a result of the climate that shocks the skin’s natural moisture balance. It’s the same shock when going from the blistering hot atmosphere into an artificially chilled room. Sitting in front of a fan or air-conditioning for extended periods of time (such as during work hours at the office or all day during summer) throws off the skin’s balance between water and oils. Because the extremely chilled air prevents skin from producing enough oils, skin becomes dry, dehydrated, and even flaky. If skin exhibits shrivelling due to the extended exposure to air-conditioning, skin can show signs of premature aging, especially fine lines and wrinkles. The circulation of air-conditioning can also cause airborne bacteria to blow around the room, which may infiltrate the skin and cause free radical damage. In addition to creating new skin issues, air-conditioning also exacerbates pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.