Do I Need to Use Humidifier in Summer?
Do I Need to Use Humidifier in Summer?
Although the moisture level during the summer is usually high, AC removes humidity from the indoor space. As a result, you might have to deal with dry skin and its associated problems. Even the most trusted moisturizers can’t change the situation because, in an environment with low humidity, it draws water from the skin, causing even more dryness. The best you can do is to create a good microclimate. Many recent studies support the idea of using a humidifier in summer. So, let’s see how it works!
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How Do I Know if I Need a Humidifier in Summer?
Your skin is smart and can clearly communicate with you. The first and foremost sign that it desperately needs extra hydration is unusual dryness, dullness, and rough, scaly patches on the nose or cheeks. You may also notice shallow wrinkles around the eyes and mouth that were less prominent in the past.
Besides, the skin can start itching and become more prone to allergies. This happens because low humidity reduces the barrier function, making it susceptible to environmental stressors. Overall, the need for a humidifier is obvious to those who want to prolong the skin’s youthfulness and keep it glowy and healthy.
You can check your living space’s humidity level with a hygrometer. It should fall between 30% and 50% and never exceed 60%.
How Humidifier Can Benefit My Skin?
Reduces Transepidermal Water Loss
Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is the process by which water escapes the skin into the air. It is normal, but if it happens for a long time, it can dehydrate the skin and weaken the barrier. When you turn a humidifier on, you create your own hydrating microclimate. According to a study in 2013, the mist from the humidifier can fill the air with water molecules, which surround your skin and help significantly decrease TEWL.
Protects the Skin From Allergens
While allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S., people can comfortably live with them by avoiding particular triggers. No one will argue that it is hard because allergens aren’t visible to the naked eye, but you can still improve your condition by using a humidifier. When it adds moisture to the air, common indoor allergens become heavier and no longer rise into the air, irritating the respiratory system.
The only thing you should keep in mind is the importance of controlling the humidity level – which should never exceed 60%. Otherwise, your home will become a favorite place for dust mites and exacerbate your allergy symptoms. To control it, use a hygrometer or a humidifier with a built-in humidistat.
Diminishes the Appearance of Wrinkles
Although dryness alone doesn’t form new wrinkles, it can make existing ones stand out more. A humidifier helps counteract dehydration, so moisture is less likely to escape your skin. It was proved by a study conducted in 2007, where 20 participants were assessed after staying for 30 minutes in a high-humidity room and again after staying for 30 minutes in a low-humidity room. The authors indicated decreases in moisture levels and significant increases in wrinkles after acclimatization to low humidity.
How to Use a Humidifier?
Check the device for leaks, cracks, and any damage to the wire. That’s extremely important because any humidifier works with water and electrical appliances.
Place the device on a flat surface away from the curious kids and pets. It should stand at the height of at least 0.5-1 m from the floor. Moist air is heavy and settles faster, leading to condensate accumulation under the humidifier. It is also important to keep a distance of 0.3-0.5 m from the wooden furniture and walls because constantly running steam can cause a lot of trouble.
Pour water into the reservoir. Use only distilled water because tap or bottled water causes the device to fail.
Adjust the steam supply according to the instructions and plug it in.
Is It OK to Use a Humidifier Every Night?
Yes, you can definitely use a humidifier every night if it has an auto-off function. The device itself will “fall asleep” when the humidity reaches the desired value. You can also look at models with a timer – they will turn on and off “by the clock.”
Can I Put Lemon Juice in My Humidifier?
The answer is not unambiguous and depends on the humidifier’s specific model. Some devices have a special design that allows you to add lemon juice directly to the water compartment. Turning it on will spray the steam scents, filling your home with a delightful freshness. Other humidifiers have a separate window with a felt plate where you can add lemon juice. On the one hand, it’s good because there is no risk of corroding. On the other hand, the effect of aromatherapy cannot be satisfied because the smell doesn’t spread for a long distance. There are also affordable models of humidifiers without fancy features. Unfortunately, they can easily malfunction if you use something other than distilled water.
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