Is your AC drying your skin? Blossom Kochhar explains how to fix it

As temperatures rise, your skin isn't just dealing with heat. It is simultaneously battling sun exposure, dehydration, sweat, and pollution, a combination that can quietly damage the skin barrier if not managed well.

In the middle of this seasonal stress, many people turn to quick DIY fixes. But according to Blossom Kochhar, a pioneer of aromatherapy and holistic skincare in India, the basics still matter far more than trends.

Drawing from over five decades of experience, Kochhar explains why everyday habits, from sleeping under the AC to not changing your pillowcase, are sabotaging your skin.

AIR CONDITIONERS CAN LEAVE YOUR SKIN DRY

If your skin feels unusually tight or dry despite sweating in summer, your air conditioner could be one of the reasons.

“ACs are drying out our skin because the air is very dry. Even fans and ACs together increase this effect. While you sleep, your skin is constantly exposed to this dryness," Kochhar says.

The result is a confusing mix, sweat on the surface, but dehydration underneath. This can weaken the skin barrier, making it more prone to irritation, dullness and even breakouts.

Switching off the AC may not be practical, especially in peak summer. Instead, Kochhar suggests focusing on restoring hydration at the skin level.

Her simple fix: apply a hydrating gel before moisturiser.

“Use a gel before makeup or as part of your routine. It deeply hydrates. Then follow it up with a moisturiser,” she explains.

THE SUMMER SKINCARE ROUTINE YOUR SKIN ACTUALLY NEEDS

Skin needs change with seasons, and summer demands a lighter yet more hydrating approach.

Kochhar outlines a simple routine:

• Sunscreen is non-negotiable: It protects against UV damage, tanning, and premature ageing
• Hydrating gels: These help soothe heat-exposed skin and lock in moisture
• Moisturisers: Even oily skin needs hydration, especially in dry indoor environments
• Serums: Ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C support skin repair and hydration

“Serums really work with your skin,” she says. “They help address specific concerns and improve overall skin health.”

The key is layering, lighter, water-based products first, followed by creams to seal in moisture.

WHAT YOU EAT SHOWS UP ON YOUR SKIN

Topical skincare can only do so much. What you eat and drink plays a direct role in how your skin looks and feels.

“We can't eat anything and expect glowing skin,” Kochhar says.

During summer, the body loses more water through sweat, which can reflect on the skin as dryness or dullness. To counter this, she recommends:

• Drinking at least 6–8 glasses of water daily — often more in hot weather
• Eating fresh salads and green leafy vegetables
• Including yogurt, which helps gut health and cooling
• Having fruit and vegetable juices for hydration and nutrients

Hydration, both internal and external, is what keeps the skin balanced in extreme heat.

YOUR PILLOWCASE COULD BE CAUSING YOUR ACNE

One of the most overlooked triggers for breakouts is something you come into contact with every night, your pillowcase.

“Especially in summer, we sweat a lot. That sweat builds up on pillowcases and can lead to breakouts,” Kochhar explains.

When sweat, oil, and dirt accumulate on fabric, they create an environment where acne-causing bacteria can thrive. This then transfers back to your skin repeatedly.

Her advice is simple: change pillowcases every 2–3 days, keep hair clean and away from the face while sleeping and avoid leaving oil in your hair overnight.

“Use oil only 20–30 minutes before shampooing, not while sleeping,” she says.

NIGHT-TIME HABITS FOR CLEAR SKIN

What you do before bed matters just as much as your morning routine.

Kochhar strongly recommends double cleansing at night, especially in summer when sweat, sunscreen, and pollution build up on the skin.

“Always clean your face properly before sleeping,” she says. “Keep your hair clean, your face clean.”

Skipping this step can clog pores and lead to dullness and acne over time.