Winter weather for the skin is not pleasant. Cold weather and low humidity results in dry air, which then every second of the day steals moisture from the skin. Dry skin can cause cracking and bleeding without immediate care, and harsh winter wind makes the problem worse. Indoor heat, including hot showers or baths or harsh cleaners, further robs the air of moisture. The additional moisture helps, but more needs to be done to counteract these effects and keep your skin looking youthful and smooth. Try these tips to keep skin soft and glowing in winter and make skin healthier and more comfortable this season.
Tips To Keep Skin Soft and Glowing In Winter
1. Use lukewarm water to wash face
Hot showers and baths always feel best in the winter. But when washing your face choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.
2. Moisturize immediately
Your skin not only needs more moisture but moisture right after you wash. Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.
3. Carefully select the moisturizer
Many over-the-counter moisturizers have ingredients dependent on petroleum that in the winter months will potentially dry your skin further. Make sure to choose a smart formula that has organic, nourishing ingredients. Go for a solution based on oil rather than water, as it is more likely to help your skin retain moisture in the winter. Try the natural moisturizing oils as they are made from natural, moisturizing ingredients such as lavender, chamomile, jojoba, and more that help soothe dry, itchy skin.
4. Protect
Use gloves and scarves to secure skin against cold winds, rain, and snow. Don’t forget about the sunscreen, too. Winter sun can be as damaging as the summer sun, so apply a safe option to any exposed area, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
5. Humidify
Heating systems are drying out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom, to restore moisture to the air and help prevent drying out of your skin.
6. Drink
In winter, we tend to drink less water because we turn to hot drinks such as cocoa and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from the inside out. It can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time, a little warm water with lemon.
7. Overnight Moisturize
Drier areas such as arms, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to lose moisture more easily than other areas on the body. Try slathering at night on a deep moisturizing balm, then wear cotton gloves and socks until morning to seal in the moisture.
8. Exfoliate
We sometimes forget, particularly on our hands, to help the skin slough off dead cells in the winter. However, if the dead cells are too abundant, moisture cannot enter. Find and use an exfoliating mask on your face and hands as well as on your lips, then immediately follow with moisture to see a smoother difference. During the winter months, exfoliating body washes are also beneficial.
9. Avoid toxins, especially allergens and irritants
Especially if you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, you need to avoid allergens and irritants that can cause a flare-up. Winter skin is more fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics (such as wool) and chemically charged detergents, and use mild skin cleansers and moisturizers for sensitive skin. Therefore, glutathione is called the “main antioxidant” and helps to detoxify the skin.
10. Hydrate the skin from the inside out
Eating foods that are high in water can help to hydrate your skin from within. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies such as celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes, and carrots. Ensure that you obtain adequate vitamins C and zinc to promote collagen and elastin healthy growth. Consider omega-3 supplement, or eat more fatty fish and flaxseed to give your skin the building blocks it needs to look smooth and supple.
11. Change Your Cleanser
The skin may be extremely dry with cleansers. If you are used to using glycolic or salicylic acid products, alternate with a more moisturizing form containing moisturizing ingredients. Use a cleansing balm for really dry skin. Do not keep your skin naked for more than 30 seconds after washing, as this can dehydrate it, resulting in increased dryness. Apply a hydrating toner and a moisturizer to seal the moisture.
Cold, dry air can make itchy, red, and unpleasant to your skin Combat dry skin in the winter with these tips to keep skin soft and glowing in winter and maintain the natural moisture of your skin.
Also Read: Ayurvedic Treatment For Dry Skin
