The wintertime can be harsh on the skin, especially if you are already predisposed to dry and flaky skin. During the winter, several factors, including lack of humidity, adding extra layers of clothing to our wardrobe, cranking up the heat, and taking hot showers, can all lead to the development of dry skin.
How to Tackle Dry Skin
Although dry skin can be remedied, it might impact day-to-day activities, leading to irritation and discomfort. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce the effects of the harsh winter on your skin. Below are some simple tips you can implement to help keep your skin smooth and hydrated this winter.
Use Gentle Cleansers
Using gentle cleansers on your face allows dirt and oil to be stripped off your skin without stripping off essential moisture. Make sure to only purchase cleansers that are gentle, hypo-allergenic, and can be used every day.
Moisturize
Moisturizing is perhaps the simplest yet effective way to care for dry skin. As winter takes away most humidity in the air, it’s important to put some moisturization back into your skin. Using a high-quality moisturizer at least twice a day, in addition to lip balm, can help lock in moisture and prevent skin from drying out.
Follow Up With Facial Moisturizers
It is best to use moisturizers specifically designed for your face immediately after cleansing and toning as part of your skincare routine. The thinner layers of skin around your nose can be susceptible to painful drying, so a moisturizer helps prevent this while also keeping your skin supple.
Avoid Extremely Hot Showers
Although it might be tempting to take hot showers during the winter, the hot steam from showers draws away much-needed moisture in the skin. Instead, opt for a lukewarm shower or bath, and follow up with a lotion or cream for the body.
Bundle Up to Protect Against the Elements
Protect yourself not just from the elements but from the cold temperatures that can cause damage to sensitive areas of the skin. This includes nailbeds and hands, which can get dry and cracked quickly. Wearing gloves in addition to scarves, extra socks, and extra layers can protect your skin from the harsh winter cold.
Drink Water/Hydrate
It is essential to continue to drink water during the winter months, especially since you can still suffer from dehydration without knowing it. If you work a demanding job outdoors, this puts you even more at risk of dehydration in addition to dry skin. Protect yourself against both by continuing to drink water. Remember, the recommended daily intake is 91 ounces for women and 125 ounces for men!
SPF Even in the Winter
The sun can still affect you in the colder months, even if it is behind looming clouds or overcast. UV rays still penetrate through the clouds any time of day. They can also penetrate through windows if you’re working near one. Because of this, continue to use at least SPF 30-50 on your skin to prevent dryness and DNA damage of the dermis, which can lead to skin cancer.
Use a Humidifier
If you turn the heat up in your home during the winter, this can strip away any moisture in the house and cause you to have dry skin, even in the comfort of your living room. To balance this, use a humidifier, which can help rehydrate your skin.
Keep Your Skin Healthy Year-Round
Winter weather can be harsh on the skin. However, there are many steps you can take to keep your skin moisturized, rehydrated, and healthy! If you have difficulty getting rid of your dry skin or have concerns about your skin, schedule an appointment with your dermatology professional today. Our providers are here to help you treat your dry skin and other dermatology concerns.