Cold weather, dry wind and bright sunlight all together make winter quite a hard season for your skin. Often, normal skincare regimen may not be enough, as many experience their skin becoming extra sensitive, drying and peeling off.
Consider these tips to keep your skin healthy and smooth during the winter season.
Apply Moisturizer/ Sunscreen
Moisturizing after washing up helps maintain healthy skin. The hot sun and cold winds contribute to a dry climate – indoors and outdoors. Reach for an oil-free moisturizer or something more intense to keep your complexion protected against wintry elements and damaging UVB & UVA rays. Applying a hand cream after each washing can help. Apply sunscreen whether you are walking through a parking lot or even playing in the snow, as the sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage.
Wear waterproof gloves when washing dishes or cleaning around the house. Running a humidifier in the rooms or office you spend the most time will add moisture to the dry winter air and help keep your skin hydrated.
Use Lukewarm Water
Instead of using hot water that dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils, use lukewarm water to shower and wash your face. Hot showers dry your skin quickly, and if you do not moisturize it immediately, your skin can develop cracks and winter eczema. After a lukewarm shower, make sure to apply a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides. This will keep the moisture barrier intact and prevent dryness. Also, limit your shower time.
Eat Right
Nuts and fruits can provide you with essential nutrients. Choose foods high in water content that help to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Try fruits and watery veggies such as watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. Foods that are rich in vitamin C and zinc support the healthy production of collagen and elastin.
Exercises can increase the blood circulation in the skin, which contributes to making your skin suppler and softer.
Stay Hydrated
Remember that your skin needs hydration from the inside out. Drink more water even if you don’t feel thirsty. As the air is drier in winter, water evaporates from your body easily. Make sure to maintain your regular water intake, as it helps to manage the moisture level in your skin. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time. Over consumption of caffeine and alcoholic beverages during winter can dehydrate your skin and make it dry and flaky.
Wear Dry, Comfortable Clothes
Wool and rough clothing can cause dry skin to get irritated and itchy. Consider wearing clothes made of soft, breathable materials and warmer sweaters. Use gloves or mittens to protect your hands from the cold winter air. As wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin, remove them as soon as possible and opt for dry ones.
Choose Quality Skin Care Products
If you have to be outdoors for long periods of time, use protective creams from a reliable brand. Also, remember to add a sunscreen cream if you are in a sunny winter landscape.
For a skin that is dry and itchy, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends to stop using products that contain alcohol and fragrances in order to help the skin retain its natural oils. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face. Choose fragrance-free, moisturizing cleanser or gel and reduce the use of soap to prevent winter skin problems. Glycerin-based creams and petroleum jelly can be used to moisturize your feet. Exfoliating the skin on your feet occasionally ensures that it can absorb the moisturizer easily.
You can also consider natural home remedies such as face packs made of almond and milk, olive oil and egg yolk, avocado and honey as well as coconut oil to improve skin care in winter. Importantly, remember to clean your skin thoroughly before going to bed.
