As the weather grows colder and the air drier, static electricity becomes common. Some people experience static shocks more than others, raising concerns about whether these shocks could harm their health. But why does static electricity occur, and who will most likely experience it?
Understanding Static Electricity
Static electricity is referred to as “stationary electricity” – it has accumulated and is not flowing. When this accumulated electricity discharges as an object that conducts electricity comes into contact with our skin, we experience a static shock. Dehydrated people with dry skin, skin conditions, or diabetes, which can cause dry skin, are more likely to experience static electricity.
Is Static Electricity Harmful to the Body?
Static electricity in our surroundings can involve thousands to tens of thousands of volts of electricity. However, it does not harm the human body since almost no current flows. In other words, no diseases are triggered by static electricity. However, people who are physically weak or overworked may react relatively more sensitively to static electricity than others.
A Shocking Experience When Touching Certain Objects
You’ll feel a slight sting when static electricity flows as you touch particular objects. This momentary shock can be annoying if it occurs repeatedly, making daily life inconvenient. Frequent static shocks can make the skin itchy, and scratching can lead to wounds or inflammation.
Individual Differences in Static Electricity
Older people often complain more about static electricity because their skin becomes drier as they age. However, regardless of age, anyone with dry skin can be easily exposed to static electricity. Women are more sensitive than men, feeling tingling at about 2,500 volts. Dry people, rather than those who are sweaty or fat, tend to feel static electricity more intensely.
Higher Risk of Burns During Self-Service Fueling
Self-service gas stations are popular due to their lower prices than regular gas stations. However, during the dry winter, there’s a risk of burns due to static electricity. If you overlook the anti-static pad provided at self-service stations, a fire accident can occur when fuel vapor sprays out during fueling. Therefore, if you’re fueling on a dry day, touch the anti-static pad attached to the fuel dispenser before fueling.
Controlling and Maintaining Humidity is Key
To prevent static electricity, managing humidity is essential. Static electricity is a sign that the environment is extremely dry. During the winter, it’s best to maintain a humidity of about 50-60%. Using a humidifier, hanging wet laundry indoors to prevent the room from becoming too dry, and having houseplants or aquariums can help.
Wearing Clothes Made of Natural Fibers
Synthetic fibers are a hotbed for static electricity, so to prevent static electricity, it’s better to wear clothes made of natural fibers. Don’t stack or hang clothes made of the same material together when storing clothes. Instead, insert newspaper in between or hang clothes made of cotton to prevent the occurrence of static electricity.
Moisturizing Skin and Hair
Drink plenty of water regularly and apply moisturizer on damp skin after showering. Hair moisturizing is also crucial. Using conditioner after shampooing and applying hair essence can effectively moisturize the hair and prevent static electricity. When drying your hair with a towel, please don’t rub it but pat it dry instead.
Remove Socks First When Undressing
Static electricity often occurs when undressing, but you can avoid it by removing your socks first. When you’re barefoot, the electricity flows into the ground just before static electricity occurs. Also, using fabric softener when washing clothes is good, and spraying anti-static spray can be more effective.
Tap Objects Before Touching Them
If you’re afraid of static electricity before touching an object, how about tapping it first with your fingernail? You won’t feel the static electricity since there are no nerve tissues in your nails. Therefore, if you hold up your fingernail for about 3 seconds before touching an object, the static electricity will be discharged. However, be careful not to touch the skin around your nails, as it will nullify the effect.
By. Jeon Shin Young
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