**Anchorage AC: Is "Clean" Air Drying Winter Lasers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe biting Alaskan wind is only half the battle for Anchorage residents seeking laser skin treatments. The real enemy? The very air they breathe indoors.
Laser treatments, while effective, leave skin incredibly vulnerable. Post-treatment care is paramount, and in Anchorage, that means battling a unique environmental challenge: the extreme dryness caused by heating systems, often exacerbated by the unintentional use of air conditioning during the winter months.
Why would anyone in Alaska use AC in winter? It’s not about cooling. It’s about dehumidification. Many older Anchorage homes, particularly those built before modern vapor barrier technology, suffer from excessive indoor humidity during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) and even in winter. This humidity can lead to mold growth and discomfort. Residents, accustomed to using air conditioning to combat this dampness in the summer, sometimes continue the practice into the colder months, unaware of the detrimental effects on their skin, especially after laser procedures.
Air conditioners work by cooling air and removing moisture. This process pulls water vapor out of the air, drastically reducing humidity levels. While this might seem beneficial for preventing mold, it creates an incredibly dry environment that strips moisture from the skin.
Imagine undergoing a laser treatment designed to rejuvenate your skin, only to then subject it to an environment that actively sucks the moisture out of it. The result? Delayed healing, increased risk of scarring, and a significantly diminished outcome from the laser treatment itself.
The science is simple: laser treatments create micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries require a moist environment to heal properly. Dry air, especially the kind produced by air conditioning, pulls moisture away from these healing areas, leading to:
- Increased inflammation: Dryness exacerbates inflammation, prolonging redness and discomfort.
- Impaired barrier function: The skin’s natural barrier is compromised by both the laser and the dry air, making it more susceptible to irritation and infection.
- Delayed healing: A moist wound heals faster. Dryness slows down the cellular processes necessary for repair.
- Increased risk of scarring: When the skin is excessively dry, the healing process can be disrupted, leading to the formation of thicker, more noticeable scars.
So, what’s an Anchorage resident to do? The key is understanding the specific challenges of the Alaskan climate and adapting post-laser skincare accordingly.
First and foremost: ditch the AC in winter unless absolutely necessary. If humidity is a concern, explore alternative dehumidification methods that are less harsh on the skin.
Here are some practical steps for post-laser skincare in Anchorage’s dry climate:
Invest in a good quality humidifier. A whole-house humidifier is ideal, but even a portable humidifier in the bedroom can make a significant difference. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. Monitor the humidity with a hygrometer.
Use a thick, emollient moisturizer. Avoid lotions that are primarily water-based. Look for creams or ointments containing ingredients like:
- Ceramides: Help to repair the skin’s barrier function.
- Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that attracts moisture to the skin.
- Shea butter: A rich emollient that provides deep hydration.
- Petrolatum: An occlusive that creates a barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Apply moisturizer frequently. Don’t just apply moisturizer once in the morning and once at night. Reapply throughout the day, especially after washing your face or showering.
Avoid harsh cleansers. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Protect your skin from the sun. Even in winter, the Alaskan sun can be intense, especially reflecting off the snow. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
Consider using a healing balm. Products like Aquaphor or Cicalfate can provide a protective barrier and promote healing. Apply a thin layer to the treated area as needed.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Avoid hot showers and baths. Hot water can further dry out the skin. Opt for lukewarm water and keep showers short.
Consult with your dermatologist or laser technician. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and the specific laser treatment you received. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about post-treatment care in Anchorage’s unique climate.
A common pitfall is underestimating the drying power of indoor heating. Many residents think that simply applying moisturizer once a day is enough. It’s not. The dry air is constantly pulling moisture from the skin, so frequent reapplication is essential.
Another mistake is using products that contain irritating ingredients, such as fragrances, alcohol, or harsh exfoliants. These ingredients can further damage the skin’s barrier and delay healing.
A real-world example: Sarah, an Anchorage resident, underwent a series of laser treatments to reduce sun damage. She followed the standard post-treatment instructions, but her skin remained red and irritated for weeks. After consulting with her dermatologist, she realized that her use of air conditioning in the winter was exacerbating the dryness. She switched to a humidifier, started using a thicker moisturizer, and avoided harsh cleansers. Within a week, her skin began to heal properly, and she finally saw the results she had hoped for from the laser treatments.
The key takeaway is that post-laser skincare in Anchorage requires a proactive and informed approach. Understanding the impact of indoor air quality, particularly the drying effects of heating systems and the potential misuse of air conditioning, is crucial for achieving optimal results and protecting your skin. Don’t let the Alaskan winter sabotage your laser treatment investment.