**Dallas Drywall: AC Dust Stealing Summer Skin?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 5, 2025

The relentless Texas sun beats down, and you crank up the AC to escape the heat. But something’s amiss. Your skin feels tight, itchy, and strangely… parched. You’re not alone. Dallas summers, especially with the city’s booming construction scene, can be brutal on your skin, creating a perfect storm of dryness.

Dallas, Texas, in the summer: a battleground for your skin. The culprit? A sneaky combination of drywall dust and aggressive air conditioning, a phenomenon I call “AC dust steal.”

Drywall dust, ubiquitous in a city constantly building and renovating, is incredibly absorbent. It’s designed to soak up moisture during the setting process. When it lands on your skin, it continues that mission, pulling moisture away.

Air conditioning, while a lifesaver, further exacerbates the problem. It cools the air by removing humidity. This creates an environment that actively sucks moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling like the Sahara.

The combination is devastating. Your skin’s natural moisture barrier, already weakened by the dry air, is further assaulted by the moisture-absorbing dust.

How do you know if you’re a victim of “AC dust steal?” Look for these telltale signs:

• Increased itchiness, especially on your arms and legs.
• Flaky or peeling skin, even if you usually have oily skin.
• A tight, uncomfortable feeling after showering.
• Increased sensitivity to skincare products.

The first step is identifying the source of the drywall dust. Are you living in a newly constructed building in Uptown? Are you renovating your home in Lakewood? Even small amounts of dust can make a big difference.

If you suspect drywall dust, invest in a good air purifier with a HEPA filter. These filters are designed to trap fine particles, including drywall dust. Place the purifier in the room where you spend the most time, like your bedroom or living room.

Next, adjust your AC settings. Most modern AC units have a humidity control setting. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. This will help prevent your skin from drying out too much.

Consider using a humidifier, especially at night. A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture back into the air, counteracting the drying effects of the AC.

Now, let’s talk skincare. The key is to choose moisturizers that are specifically designed for dry skin and the Dallas climate.

Look for products containing humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, draw moisture from the air into your skin. Emollients, like shea butter and ceramides, soften and smooth the skin. Occlusives, like petrolatum and beeswax, create a barrier to prevent moisture loss.

In Dallas, lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers are your best bet. Heavy creams can feel greasy and clog pores in the humid summer months.

Here’s a step-by-step moisturizing routine for Dallas summers:

1. Cleanse with a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
2. Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin. This will help draw moisture into your skin.
3. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer containing ceramides and emollients.
4. Finish with a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen is essential, even on cloudy days.

Don’t forget about your body! Use a moisturizing body wash and apply a body lotion immediately after showering.

Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom at night. This will help keep your skin hydrated while you sleep.

Exfoliation is also important, but don’t overdo it. Exfoliating once or twice a week can help remove dead skin cells and allow your moisturizer to penetrate more effectively.

If your dry skin persists despite these measures, it’s time to see a dermatologist. Dallas has some excellent dermatologists who specialize in dry skin conditions.

Here are a few recommendations for Dallas-area dermatologists:

• Dr. Lori Stetler at Dallas Center for Dermatology. She is known for her expertise in treating eczema and other dry skin conditions.
• Dr. Heidi Prather at Westlake Dermatology. She offers a wide range of treatments for dry skin, including laser therapy and chemical peels.
• Dr. Angela Bowers at U.S. Dermatology Partners Dallas. She is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in treating all types of skin conditions.

These dermatologists can assess your skin and recommend a personalized treatment plan. They may prescribe prescription-strength moisturizers or other medications to help alleviate your dry skin.

One common mistake people make is using hot water when showering. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, making dryness worse. Stick to lukewarm water instead.

Another mistake is not drinking enough water. Dehydration can exacerbate dry skin. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

Finally, be patient. It takes time to repair your skin’s moisture barrier. Stick to your skincare routine and you will see results.

Living in Dallas during the summer doesn’t have to mean suffering from dry, itchy skin. By understanding the causes of “AC dust steal” and taking proactive steps to protect your skin, you can enjoy the summer months without sacrificing your comfort. Remember to identify the dust source, adjust your AC, choose the right moisturizers, and consult a dermatologist if needed. Your skin will thank you.