Your Skin Feels Worse In a Heatwave? It Might Be Your AC, Expert Says

As Europe grapples with yet another summer of shattering temperature records, air conditioning has rapidly shifted from a luxury to a baseline necessity. From the scorching plazas of Madrid to the historically ill-equipped apartments of London, the continent is being forced to adapt to a blistering new climate reality. Cooling systems are buzzing to life in homes, offices, and public transit networks to safeguard the public against dangerous overheating. However, while these artificial oases protect our vitals, experts warn they might be quietly sabotaging our largest organ: our skin.

The invisible culprit is the dramatic drop in humidity that keeps indoor spaces feeling crisp. According to Dr. Gizem Seymenoglu, a London-based medical aesthetic practitioner within Longevita’s network, these pristine, climate-controlled environments come with a hidden cost. She explains that air-conditioned spaces significantly disrupt the skin’s natural moisture balance, effectively acting as a moisture vacuum. By stripping the air of humidity, AC units force water to evaporate rapidly from the epidermis, leaving the skin barrier compromised, dehydrated, and highly susceptible to irritation.

Dr. Gizem Seymenoglu says, “Air conditioning reduces humidity in the air, which means the skin loses water more easily. Over time, this can leave the skin feeling tight, dry and more sensitive, especially if you’re spending long hours indoors during a heatwave.”

She adds that many people do not immediately connect their symptoms to indoor cooling.

“What I often see is that patients assume their skincare has stopped working, when in reality it is the environment pulling moisture out of the skin.”

The skin barrier acts as a protective shield, retaining moisture and defending against irritants. Prolonged exposure to dry, cooled air can weaken that barrier, making skin more vulnerable.

“When the skin barrier is repeatedly exposed to dry air, it becomes less effective at holding onto moisture. People often notice increased redness, irritation and sensitivity,” Dr Gizem says.

She also warns that sudden temperature changes can put extra stress on the skin. “Moving between hot outdoor temperatures and heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces can leave the skin feeling even more dehydrated and sensitive.”

While anyone can notice drier skin after prolonged exposure to air conditioning, some people are more susceptible than others.

Older adults, babies and young children, as well as people with naturally dry or sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema and rosacea, may notice symptoms more quickly.

“People with eczema or rosacea are often more sensitive to dry environments. As the skin loses moisture more quickly, irritation and flare-ups can become more likely,” she explains.

“Even if you don’t have an existing skin condition, spending all day in air-conditioned offices, hotels or while travelling can still leave your skin feeling noticeably drier than usual,” she warns.

How to Protect Your Skin While Staying Cool?

Rather than overloading the skin with products, Dr Gizem recommends focusing on hydration and protecting the skin barrier.

“Keep your skincare routine simple, avoid harsh cleansers and use moisturisers that help lock water into the skin.”

She also recommends small, consistent habits throughout the day.

“Reapplying a light moisturiser during the day can make a real difference if you’re spending hours in air-conditioned environments. Drinking water regularly throughout the day also helps support healthy skin hydration from within.”

Air conditioning remains essential for keeping the body safe during periods of extreme heat. However, Dr Gizem says it’s worth remembering that while you’re protecting yourself from the heat, your skin may need a little extra support too.