Austin AC: Is Your "Clean" Air Drying Your Skin?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

July 28, 2025

It’s not just the heat; it’s the lack of humidity that gets you in Austin. We all crank up the AC to escape the brutal summers, but what about the silent thief stealing moisture from your skin? “Texas Skin,” that dry, itchy, and sometimes flaky condition, is a real thing, and your AC is likely an accomplice.

The problem isn’t just the AC itself, but how it interacts with the very structure of your Austin home.

Here’s how to fight back and reclaim your skin’s hydration.

First, understand the enemy: low humidity. Air conditioners cool by removing moisture. In Austin, where humidity can fluctuate wildly, running the AC constantly can drop indoor humidity to desert-like levels.

Most homes in Austin are built with materials like drywall, wood framing, and concrete foundations. These materials are hygroscopic, meaning they readily absorb and release moisture. When the AC is blasting, these materials act like giant sponges, sucking up any available moisture from the air and from your skin.

A simple DIY moisture check can reveal the extent of the problem. You’ll need a hygrometer, readily available at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Austin. Place the hygrometer in different rooms of your house, away from direct sunlight or vents. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. Anything below 40% is a red flag.

Pay special attention to rooms with older drywall or wood, as these tend to be more porous and absorb more moisture. Also, consider the age of your home. Older homes in areas like Hyde Park or Travis Heights might have different building materials and insulation compared to newer constructions in Mueller or Circle C Ranch, affecting how humidity is retained.

If your humidity levels are consistently low, a humidifier is your best weapon. But not just any humidifier. The Austin climate demands a specific type. Avoid ultrasonic humidifiers, which can leave a white dust residue on surfaces due to the hard water common in Austin. Instead, opt for an evaporative humidifier or a cool mist humidifier with a demineralization cartridge.

Consider these models, readily available at Austin retailers:

• Honeywell HCM350 Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier: A reliable evaporative humidifier suitable for medium-sized rooms.
• Levoit LV600HH Hybrid Ultrasonic Humidifier: Despite being ultrasonic, its hybrid design and demineralization cartridge make it a viable option for Austin water.

Start with a humidifier setting of around 45%. Monitor the hygrometer and adjust accordingly. Over-humidifying can lead to mold growth, a common problem in humid climates like Austin.

Don’t just rely on the humidifier. Address the moisture-sucking culprits directly.

• Seal gaps and cracks: Caulk around windows and doors to prevent air leaks. This is especially important in older Austin homes with settling foundations.
• Insulate properly: Ensure your home is adequately insulated to maintain consistent temperatures and reduce the need for excessive AC use. Check the insulation in your attic, a common source of heat gain in Austin homes.
• Consider a whole-house humidifier: If you have a larger home or multiple rooms with low humidity, a whole-house humidifier attached to your HVAC system might be a worthwhile investment.

Beyond environmental controls, focus on repairing existing skin damage.

Austin dermatologists often recommend these strategies:

• Moisturize immediately after showering: Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or shea butter.
• Use a humidifier at night: Place a humidifier in your bedroom to combat overnight dryness.
• Avoid harsh soaps: Opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Consider a hydrating facial: Many Austin spas offer facials specifically designed to combat dry skin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a personalized “Texas Skin” hydration plan:

1. Assess your home’s humidity: Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels in different rooms.
2. Identify moisture-sucking culprits: Check for gaps, cracks, and inadequate insulation.
3. Choose the right humidifier: Opt for an evaporative or cool mist humidifier with a demineralization cartridge.
4. Set the humidifier to 45%: Monitor humidity levels and adjust accordingly.
5. Seal gaps and cracks: Caulk around windows and doors.
6. Moisturize regularly: Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer after showering and before bed.
7. Consult a dermatologist: Seek professional advice for persistent skin problems.

Common mistakes developers face when dealing with humidity control include:

• Ignoring the impact of building materials: Failing to recognize how drywall, wood, and concrete affect humidity levels.
• Using the wrong type of humidifier: Choosing an ultrasonic humidifier in an area with hard water.
• Over-humidifying: Creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
• Neglecting skin care: Relying solely on environmental controls without addressing existing skin damage.

Overcoming these challenges requires a holistic approach that combines environmental control with proper skin care. By understanding the unique challenges of the Austin climate and taking proactive steps to mitigate the skin-drying effects of AC, you can reclaim your skin’s hydration and enjoy a comfortable, healthy home. Remember, “Texas Skin” doesn’t have to be your destiny.