Is 'office air' to blame for your bad skin and hair?

Employees across the country are blaming the "office air" phenomenon for drying out their skin, making their hair frizz up, and melting off their makeup long before 5 o'clock hits. 

Office air TikTok theory

What it is:

The "office air" conversation happening on TikTok is about a shared experience by women who feel cute after doing their hair and makeup for work, but feel like their "look" has disappeared by the end of the day.

What they're saying:

"I'll do my hair, I'll do my makeup, I will put on a nice outfit, and I always feel like by the end of the day, it's like I had not done any of those things," Hope Dougherty said. She’s an accountant and content creator. "My makeup is almost completely gone and my hair has fallen, and I just generally feel very uncomfortable and gross." 

The theories point to extreme heating and air-conditioning, a lack of fresh air and the harsh, fluorescent lighting.

Dermatologist Dr. Susan Massick points out that recirculated or recycled air tends to be very dry, so your office’s air may typically be very dry.

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Dig deeper:

 "Office air" not only impacts how workers look and feel, some say it can also affect their performance.

"If you don't feel good you are not as focused because your mind is being diverted to think about how gross you feel. You are not as confident, and that is very important in a workplace, especially for women," Dougherty says.

The other side:

Massick says there are additional factors to consider besides the air quality, such as long hours, blue light from your computer and stress.

"Stress can make a huge impact when it comes to your skin, how you're feeling," she adds. "When you're stressed, the increased cortisol levels, you might find that your regular skin conditions, whether you have eczema or psoriasis are much, much worse."

What you can do:

If you're experiencing symptoms of "office air," Massick says it can be helped with a simple skin care regimen of moisturizer and sunscreen. 

Massick also advises workers to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding a lot of caffeine or energy drinks, and using a desk humidifier, if your office allows it.