Yes, air conditioning can contribute to premature skin aging. The primary mechanism is dehydration. Air conditioning significantly reduces the humidity in the air, leading to moisture loss from the skin. This dehydration weakens the skin's elasticity, making it more prone to wrinkling and creasing over time. This is supported by multiple sources. For example, Delco HVAC states that "The drying effects of air conditioning can aggravate or worsen skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea." https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/your-hvac-can-be-aging-you-combat-ac-effects-on-your-skin/ Hartman Brothers HVAC similarly notes that air conditioning can "make your skin age prematurely" due to moisture loss and reduced elasticity. https://hartmanbrothers.com/blog/air-conditioning-can-affect-skin Furthermore, a statement from another source explains that failure to replace moisture lost due to AC can "make your skin more prone to wrinkling and creasing. Over time it could lead to premature aging as moisture loss weakens the elastic properties of your skin."
While air conditioning itself doesn't directly cause aging, its drying effect accelerates the natural aging process by compromising the skin's barrier function and reducing its ability to retain moisture. This is a significant factor contributing to premature wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Therefore, while not the sole cause of skin aging, air conditioning is a contributing factor that should be considered. The effects can be mitigated by maintaining good skin hydration through consistent moisturizing and drinking plenty of water.
