How to Avoid Dry Winter Skin
It’s that time of year again. My least favorite season – winter. The time of cold wind, heaters and dreaded dry skin. Fortunately there are a few ways you can eliminate or at least improve your dry winter skin.
Hot showers and baths
There’s not much that beats a hot bath or shower on a cold day. Problem is the inviting hot water does a number on your skin. Instead of using hot water, switch to warm water (it’s hard to do, I know).
Also, reduce the amount of cleanser you use. Soap can dry the skin out so only use what you really need. And, make sure your cleanser is a gentle one without fragrance. Extra chemicals and fragrance are not what you need right now.
Gently pat dry and then immediately put on your moisturizer. Don’t wait! Do it while your skin is still damp to help lock in moisture.
These rules go for the body, as well as the face.
Ditch the light moisturizer
Your light, summer time moisturizer isn’t going to cut it during the cold months. This is the time to start using thicker creams. I use Nivea Creme on my face in winter. It’s super thick but it’s really the only thing that works for me. It’s great at getting rid of and preventing dry skin. That being said, it does take some getting used to.
Any kind of similar cream with hyaluronic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, or olive oil will soothe the skin and get rid of the flakiness. So bump up your moisturizing routine – your skin will appreciate it.
Use a humidifier
Heaters dry out the air. This dry air can make your skin look chapped and flaky. Putting a humidifier in your room at night can really help. It will add moisture to the air, keeping your skin healthier. A side benefit is it will keep your nasal passages from drying out too!
Don’t forget your hands
People look at your hands more than you know so you definitely don’t want dry, chapped hands. I don’t know about you but I wash my hands about 20 times a day. Call me a germaphobe! All the soap and water really takes a toll. By the end of the day I have some terrible looking hands.
The only thing I’ve found to prevent this is to apply a thick hand cream right after drying. If you don’t have a hand cream, any kind of moisturizer will work. Just apply something to counteract the effects of soap and water.
Cover up
We all love those cozy glove and scarf sets! Now’s your time to show them off!
If you’re out walking in the cold wind a lot, use gloves and a scarf. The gloves will help keep your hands from drying out and the scarf will protect your neck. Plus, they’ll keep you from freezing!
Start now…
Might as well get started on a new skin regimen before the effects of old man winter show up. These simple and easy changes really will make a difference and will keep you looking your best all season long!
