Austin's AC: Texas Heat Killing Skin Oils?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Texas sun is relentless, but the real enemy for Austinites isn’t always the heat outside. It’s the air conditioning inside that’s silently sucking the moisture from our skin. We crank up the AC to escape the triple-digit temperatures, but our skin pays the price.
The constant cool, dry air of AC units accelerates the evaporation of natural oils, leaving skin feeling tight, itchy, and prone to premature aging. This is especially true in Austin, where the summer humidity, while oppressive outdoors, at least offers some natural hydration.
So, how do we combat this indoor desert and keep our skin healthy and glowing throughout the long Texas summer? Here’s a battle plan, tailored for Austin residents, focusing on readily available resources and practical solutions.
First, let’s talk about building a hydrating skincare routine. You don’t need to break the bank at Sephora. HEB and Whole Foods Market are your allies.
Cleansing: Ditch the harsh, foaming cleansers. Opt for creamy, hydrating cleansers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin. At HEB, check out the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. It’s fragrance-free and effective. Whole Foods Market carries Acure’s Seriously Soothing Cleansing Cream, a great option for sensitive skin.
Toning: Alcohol-based toners are a big no-no. They strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use a hydrating toner or facial mist. Rosewater is a classic choice, readily available at both HEB and Whole Foods. Look for pure rosewater without added alcohol or fragrance. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater, found at Ulta (and sometimes HEB), is another popular option.
Serum: This is where you can pack a serious hydration punch. Hyaluronic acid serums are your best friend. They attract and hold moisture in the skin. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, available online and at some Ulta locations in Austin, is a budget-friendly and effective choice. For a more natural option, check out Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum (available at Whole Foods), which contains hyaluronic acid and other beneficial ingredients.
Moisturizer: Don’t skimp on this step! Choose a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type. Even oily skin needs hydration. For dry skin, look for thicker creams with ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or squalane. For oily skin, opt for lighter lotions or gel-based moisturizers. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, widely available at HEB and drugstores, is a great option for oily to combination skin. For dry skin, try Weleda Skin Food (available at Whole Foods), a rich and intensely hydrating cream.
Sunscreen: This is non-negotiable, even indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows, and many fluorescent lights emit UV radiation. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a dermatologist-recommended favorite, available at some Austin spas and online.
Now, let’s dive into DIY moisturizing masks. These are a fantastic way to give your skin an extra boost of hydration. Plus, they’re fun and affordable.
Here are a couple of recipes using ingredients you can easily find at HEB or Whole Foods:
Avocado and Honey Mask: Avocado is rich in healthy fats and vitamins, while honey is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the skin. Mash half an avocado with a tablespoon of honey. Apply to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Oatmeal and Yogurt Mask: Oatmeal is soothing and anti-inflammatory, while yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates and hydrates. Mix two tablespoons of plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well) with one tablespoon of finely ground oatmeal. Apply to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:
Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too often can strip your skin of its natural oils and make it even drier. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Using hot water: Hot water can dry out your skin. Use lukewarm water when cleansing and showering.
Ignoring your body: Don’t forget to hydrate your body from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Not adjusting your routine: Your skincare needs may change depending on the season and your skin’s condition. Pay attention to your skin and adjust your routine accordingly.
Austin-Specific Solutions: Local Spas and Wellness Centers
Austin boasts a thriving spa and wellness scene. Consider treating yourself to a professional hydration treatment. Many spas offer facials specifically designed to combat dry skin.
Milk + Honey Spa: With multiple locations in Austin, Milk + Honey offers a variety of facials, including hydrating options. Their estheticians can also provide personalized skincare recommendations.
Viva Day Spa: Another popular Austin spa, Viva Day Spa offers a range of services, including hydrating facials and body treatments.
Hiatus Spa + Retreat: Hiatus Spa + Retreat focuses on natural and organic products. They offer a variety of facials and body treatments designed to nourish and hydrate the skin.
Before booking a treatment, research the spa and read reviews. Look for spas that use high-quality, hydrating products and have experienced estheticians.
Beyond Skincare: Lifestyle Adjustments
Skincare is important, but it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Here are some lifestyle adjustments that can help combat the skin-drying effects of AC:
Humidifier: Consider using a humidifier in your home or office. This will help add moisture back into the air.
Limit AC exposure: While it’s tempting to crank up the AC, try to limit your exposure as much as possible. Dress in layers so you can adjust to the temperature.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle with you and refill it often.
Eat hydrating foods: Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet, such as fruits and vegetables with high water content. Watermelon, cucumbers, and celery are all great choices.
Combating the skin-drying effects of AC in Austin requires a multi-pronged approach. By implementing a hydrating skincare routine, incorporating DIY masks, making lifestyle adjustments, and considering professional treatments, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long. Don’t let the AC win!