Dealing with dry skin can be quite a hassle. It often makes you look older, and the itching can be downright annoying. Sometimes, your skin might even crack or get red spots, which can be quite embarrassing if it happens on your face.
There are several reasons why this might happen. Washing your hands too much or soaking in a hot bath for too long can dry out your skin. But more often than not, it’s simply because there’s not enough moisture in the air.
This is especially common during the dry winter months. During this time, things like fireplaces can suck the moisture out of the air, making everything even drier. To combat this, many people use a humidifier. Let’s dive into how a humidifier can help with dry facial skin.
### What Is a Humidifier and How Does It Help Dry Skin?
A humidifier adds misted water particles into the air. Since low humidity is a major cause of dry skin, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggests keeping the humidity level in your home at around 50 percent.
You’ll see the best results when you use a humidifier alongside a good moisturizing cream. This combo helps protect the lipid layer of your skin, which acts as a barrier against damage. If your skin isn’t hydrated, this protective layer can weaken.
Dry environments are a major cause of skin issues, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists. Using a humidifier can also lower the risk of illnesses like colds. A 2013 study by the Center for Disease Control found that high humidity levels can make the influenza virus inactive more quickly.
Humidifiers are safe for everyone in the family because they don’t emit any chemicals. To get the most out of a humidifier, you need to pick the right one for your needs. Understanding the different types of humidifiers can help with that.
### The Two Types of Humidifiers
Humidifiers generally fall into two categories: warm mist and cool mist.
**Warm mist humidifiers** heat the water before releasing it as vapor, which reduces the risk of bacteria being spread. However, they can get pretty hot, posing a burn risk, especially for kids and pets.
**Cool mist humidifiers** don’t heat the water, making them safer in that regard. But, they need to be cleaned more often to prevent contamination.
Now, let’s go over what to look for when choosing a high-quality humidifier.
### Finding the Right Humidifier
Picking a good humidifier can ensure it lasts a long time and effectively helps your dry skin. Here are some things to consider:
1. **Size**: Decide if you need a large humidifier for the whole house or smaller ones for individual rooms. Check the product specifications to see the room size each model can handle.
2. **Warranty**: Look for a device that comes with a warranty, so you’re covered for any mechanical issues that might arise.
3. **Noise**: Consider the noise level. Check the product specs or read online reviews to see what others are saying about it.
### Conclusion
Using a humidifier is one of the best ways to tackle dry skin. By adding moisture to the air, it helps prevent and treat dryness, especially on your face. With these tips, you can find the perfect humidifier for your home and keep your skin hydrated and healthy.