Allergy & Air on November 13, 2014 0 Comments Humidifiers replace moisture loss that can cause dry, itchy skin. Dry, itchy skin can happen to anyone, at anytime. But it’s most prevalent during the winter when low humidity, harsh winds and indoor heating can deplete skin’s natural moisture layers. When the outer layer of skin is well hydrated, it minimizes water loss through the skin and helps keep out allergens, irritants and germs. When the outer layer dries out, it loses that protective function, allowing greater water loss that can leave skin vulnerable to a number of environmental factors. Under normal conditions, skin’s outer layer has a water content of 10 to 30 percent. Water content in the skin comes from sweat, the underlying layers of skin and the atmosphere. Skin’s natural oils act as moisturizers, allowing it to seal in water. Dry skin occurs when its outer layer loses water faster than it can be replaced, and the outer layer’s water content falls below 10 percent. Many things can cause dry skin: heat, cold, harsh soaps, frequent bathing, sun exposure and low-humidity levels. Formerly plump skin cells shrivel causing rough, scaly and itchy skin. In its most severe cases, skin’s lack of moisture can lead to cracks or bleeding. Managing Dry Skin The typical strategies for managing dry skin include moisturizing with lotions and creams, wearing lip balm, drinking plenty of water and avoiding overly hot showers or baths. But to effectively manage dry skin, it’s wise to have better control of the humidity levels in your home. Maintaining soft and supple skin requires keeping moisture in, and simply adding moisture to the skin will only get you so far. When the air is cold and dry, skin has more difficulty holding onto moisture. When the air gets dry enough, the moisture on our skin can evaporate. A room heated by a furnace can have as little as 10 percent moisture, but a humidifier keeps moisture circulating, which can help skin retain its natural moisture. In general, the ideal humidity level in your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. Humidity in this range may help you control asthma and allergy symptoms, relieve congestion, minimize the risks of catching a cold, and help control dry skin. However, those with exceptionally dry skin may consider increasing the humidity level in their home to 45 and 50 percent. Before you do this, however, it’s wise to discuss this with your doctor and/or a dermatologist. You can measure humidity levels in your home with a hygrometer, a device that looks like a thermometer and measures the amount of moisture in the air. Many humidifiers have built-in hygrometers, also called humidstats, which will maintain humidity within a preset range. Finding the Right Humidifier A portable humidifier in the living room, office or den will likely add enough moisture to help keep your skin from drying out. Sleeping with a humidifier in your bedroom with the door closed can also make sleeping more comfortable while also giving skin the moisture levels it needs. To increase humidity throughout your house, you can purchase a humidifier that attaches directly to your furnace to send more moisture to each room. While winter air is likely to be the most drying, and winter is the most beneficial time to use a humidifier, central air conditioning can also lower humidity, resulting in the need for a humidifier during summer months as well. Not only does a humidifier help keep your skin healthy, it can also help reduce the spread of germs and contribute to relieving certain sinus conditions, colds and sore throats. Adding humidity to the air will also prevent wood furniture from splitting, wallpaper from peeling and lower the potential for static shots. To fully enjoy the benefits of a humidifier, it’s important to remember to do regular and proper cleaning to eliminate the threat of mold and bacteria. Change water daily, never leave stagnant water in the tank and change filters on a regular basis. Learn More: Shop for a Humidifier How Humidifiers Can Help With Allergies How Humidifiers Can Help With Asthma Symptoms 7 Benefits of a Humidifier in the Cold Winter Months
