China's New Office Trend: Face Coverings, Desk Parasols and Sunscreen

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Feeling like you’re ageing faster at work? You’re not alone.

A growing number of Chinese workers are sharing ways to fight what they call “office ageing” — from piling on sunscreen and wearing face coverings to putting parasols directly beside their desks.

One worker from Jiangsu said that just one month into his new job, his complexion had noticeably darkened and his eyes often felt strained. Others shared similar experiences, with one saying she looked noticeably fairer after taking time off work, while another complained about constant second-hand smoke in the office.

Some workers have responded by wearing sun hats, covering their faces and arms, or even setting up parasols at their desks.

But appearance may only be part of the problem.

Experts point to office conditions such as dry air, dusty ventilation systems, poor airflow and high CO₂ levels as factors that can contribute to headaches, dry skin, throat irritation, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

The World Health Organization introduced the term “sick building syndrome” in the 1980s to describe such symptoms, which can worsen during time spent inside certain buildings and improve after leaving.

The “office ageing” discussion has also spread online. Viral posts compare workers’ appearances at the start and end of the day — from fresh makeup and bright eyes in the morning to greasy hair, dull skin and puffy faces by evening.

Others blame long hours sitting at desks for rounded shoulders, forward-leaning necks and even the “thinking lines” created by habitual frowning.

And some workers are getting creative with workplace self-care, turning empty milk-tea cups into makeshift humidifiers or keeping unusual desk “pets,” such as rocks and mango pits, to stroke when they feel stressed.

Behind the jokes, however, is a more serious question: How much does the workplace itself contribute to workers’ health and wellbeing?

As of May, China’s average weekly working hours were reportedly around 48.2 hours, above the statutory 44-hour limit.

As one online comment put it: “A good office is not a perk, but a basic right.”

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