Overcoming Dry Autumn Air
As the season begins to change, so does the air around us: it gets drier. Unfortunately, this more arid environment can be hard on our bodies, inside and out. We often find ourselves suffering from sinus problems, irritated skin, and even increased static during the fall and winter months.
While you keep your family warm and cozy this season, try these tips to overcome the lack of moisture and keep uncomfortable symptoms at bay. Your body will be thankful when you:
- Use a humidifier. These machines are perhaps the most effective way to make your home’s environment more comfortable. A humidifier releases vapor into the room, leaving the air feeling more moist. They’re compact, easy to operate, and inexpensive, making them a great solution for combatting dry air.
- Freshen the seals of your home. The outside air is most likely drier than the air inside your home. Resealing your doors and windows every year or so keeps the temperature inside your home more consistent. This is a dual-purpose solution since a lighter load for your furnace reduces the amount of drying heat it releases.
- Apply moisturizer. A simple way to take care of your skin is to use lotion or moisturizing body wash. When you add it to your daily routine, it improves the overall appearance of your skin and repairs flaking or cracking.
- Take shorter and cooler showers. Warm water might feel good on your skin temporarily, but it can be a bad choice for fall and winter. The hotter the temperature, the more moisture will be pulled out of your skin. Turn the warmth down a few degrees and try to stay in the water no longer than 15 minutes.
- Stay hydrated. Moisturizing from the outside is great, but it’s important that you put fluid back into your body as well. Drink as much water as possible and shy away from other beverages. Sugars and salts in soda can make it harder for your body to maintain healthy skin.
- Turn down the heat. Leave your thermostat on the lowest comfortable setting. The less it runs, the less it’ll pull moisture out of the air. Plus, cutting back by a few degrees saves you on energy costs, too.
Dry air is something most Americans deal with in the fall and winter. With a bit of preparation and effort, you can keep your home or office more comfortable throughout the season.
