When you move to a dry climate, you may be surprised at how the lower humidity levels can affect you. The lack of moisture in the air can have a drastic impact on everything from your hair to your furniture, but it’s easy for you to make the necessary adjustments if you know what to expect. Here’s what you should know about making the transition from a very humid environment to one that’s a bit drier.
Clean and Fresh Every Day
It may shock you to discover that the dry climate actually leaves you with skin that feels cleaner. Many people don’t have to wash their hair every day because they don’t have to deal with the humidity in the air leaving microscopic contaminants on their hair and skin. You may have to change your personal hygiene habits to make up for the difference in humidity and how your skin and hair feels.
Allergy Relief
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, then a dry climate may provide you with the relief that you need. As the humidity rises, problems with mold growth tend to increase, but this is largely eliminated in a very dry climate. Of course, windy and dry climates may actually increase your reaction to certain pollens. Check with your doctor to see if you might need a strong antihistamine to keep allergies in check.
Special Care for the Home
While the dry air may feel great, it can take a toll on your personal belongings. In particular, items made from wood are prone to drying out and can start to crack. Many people in the Southwest will add a humidifier to their home interior to help prevent cracked furniture and keep upholstery supple.
Cooling Dip
Many people in dry climates like Arizona and California have their own pools. It’s a fun and convenient way to cool off on a hot day and put a little moisture back into your own skin. The water temperature of your pool can rise drastically during the hot days, so an afternoon dip in the summer will feel more like stepping into a bathtub. However, you can keep the pool cool by adding some shade to the area with trees, arbors, or attractive fabric sun shades. See what options you might have with www.blueworldpools.com varieties.
Dry Heat is More Tolerable
Adding moisture to the air makes it feel warmer which is why the heat in very humid areas can seem unbearable, but the heat in Arizona is more manageable. You should keep in mind that the dry heat inside your car can easily be enough to bake cookies, though. Keep an old towel or oven mitt in the car so you can still grab the steering wheel or other interior components after your car has been out in the heat for a few hours.
Water the Foundation
As you move into a dry climate, you’ll find that many homes have irrigation systems that keep the space around the foundation watered. As the soil dries out, it shrinks which can cause your foundation to shift, but you can avoid the problem with regular watering.
Many people move to the Southeast and love the dry climate, but it’s vital to know what to expect. You’re going to change many habits, including personal hygiene. You may need to keep your foundation watered and your pool shaded, but you’re going to love how comfortable the air is and how beautiful the weather can be.
