Winter skin can become dry skin, if you aren’t cautious. Most of us notice much more flaking and sometimes cracking of the skin, during the cold months.
This can easily lead to a development of more fine lines and wrinkling. It can also contribute to the dreaded sagging of skin that we experience during aging.
The air in itself is much dryer in the winter season, with less humidity. This can take a toll on the skin.
On the contrary, you shouldn’t fret over it. There are a number of things you can do to help replenish the skin with hydration and moisture.
Let’s take a closer look on how we can easily relieve dry, winter skin:
1. Turn Down The Water Temperature
Nothing feels better than a hot shower after a long, winter day. You may want to rethink that idea, because the result may not be exactly what you are expecting.
Hotter water temperatures will strip the natural oils from the surface of the skin. This article reveals that hot water can also be damaging to the skin.
When the water temperature is too hot, it can cause increased eczema symptoms and overall skin inflammation.
2. Avoid Excessive Exfoliating
Since adding moisture is more important in the cold weather, exfoliating winter skin too much can cause even more dryness.
Your best bet is to lightly exfoliate 1-2 times a week with a gentle lactic acid product. This will be enough to help remove dead skin but not irritate the surface.
3. Don’t Dry Skin Completely
The moisture from water left on the skin, can help hydrate the skin after cleansing. This article suggests applying topical skin care products such as moisturizers, while skin is still damp.
Any products that trap moisture, such as humectants, ceramides and hyalauronic acid, will benefit from leaving the skin damp after washing your face or showering.
4. Moisten The Air
If the air in your environment is dry, it will show on your skin. You will notice that your skin looks dry, dull and flaky.
In order to combat this, use a humidifier in your home. There are models that work with your furnace to moisten the air in the entire house. You may also decide to opt for a smaller, tabletop version.
You can put these in the rooms you spend the most time in. It would be nice to keep one on your desk, as well. There are also tabletop humidifiers that you can add essential oils to, for added benefits.
5. Don’t Forget The Sunscreen
Just because you’re not on the beach in a bathing suit, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply sunscreen.
Any exposure to ultra violet sun rays can be damaging to the skin. This can decrease the barrier of moisture on the surface, causing it to become dry.
For the best result, apply sunscreen on a daily basis if you are going to spend any time outdoors. This should be the next step after your moisturizer is applied.
It is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology, to wear a minimum of 30 SPF sunscreen. Make sure you read the label and reapply as directed.
Conclusion
Not only should you be kind to your winter skin, but you should also be mindful to care for your skin all year long.
Drink at least half of your weight in ounces of water, to stay fully hydrated. This will also keep your skin from drying out, as well as flush out toxins in the body.
For further reading, check out: 6 Super Foods For Skin Radiating Benefits and 7 Ways You Are Causing Skin Damage.
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