Top News

The idea, known online as the “Office Air Theory,” gained traction after American TikToker Noa Donlan, who describes herself as a “corporate girly,” posted videos showing what she saw as a clear drop in her appearance throughout the workday.

She said she first became aware of the pattern after starting full-time work four years ago.

Even after changing offices, she kept seeing the same effect. Friends and relatives with office jobs said they experienced it too. When she shared her observations on TikTok, many others said they had noticed similar changes, according to the New York Post.

Experts say the reasons may be fairly simple.

One possible factor is fluorescent lighting, which is common in offices. Dr. Ross Levy, head of dermatology at Northwell Northern Westchester Hospital, told the New York Post that some fluorescent bulbs emit small amounts of UV radiation. “UV is a major cause of aging of the skin as well as being a major contributor to skin cancer,” he explained.

But lighting is likely only part of the issue. Dr. Hazal Jafari, a board-certified dermatologist, told Newsweek that office air, especially when it is dry and constantly recirculated, can have a strong impact on the skin.

Glenn Gault, an indoor air quality specialist and CEO of Gault Heating & Cooling, gave a similar explanation to Newsweek. He said office environments often combine several conditions that gradually affect a person’s appearance, including dry air, poor filtration and high carbon dioxide levels.

“These all affect your skin, hair and eyes,” he said, noting they can lead to dullness, irritation and the familiar end-of-day “tired” appearance. He also pointed to volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, as another often overlooked contributor.

Overall, the so-called theory may simply be the visible result of air conditioning, artificial lighting and poor indoor air quality working together.

To help people stay looking fresher through the day, Rhysa Phommachanh, a health and skincare specialist at Landys Chemist, shared several tips.

Hydrate frequently: Choose a nourishing emollient moisturizer and apply it to slightly damp skin to seal in moisture. Facial sprays and compact desk humidifiers may also help ease dryness.

Control frizz quickly: To manage static or flyaways, smooth a small amount of argan oil or anti-frizz serum onto the ends of your hair. Wearing protective styles such as low buns or braids can also keep frizz at bay.

Help makeup stay put: Apply a hydrating primer first, opt for cream-based formulas and finish with a setting spray or powder to prevent makeup from becoming patchy in dry air.

Care for hands and lips: These areas are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. Use hand creams rich in ceramides and protective lip balms to strengthen the skin barrier.

Choose breathable clothing: Fabrics like cotton, silk and wool reduce static and allow the skin to breathe. A gentle fabric refresher can also revive clothes after hours at a desk.

“A little moisture, cleaner air near your desk, and regular breaks for fresh air go a long way. Sometimes it’s not your face changing, it’s the air around you,” said Gault.