Winter’s here! And if you aren’t outside enjoying the chill weather then you are probably indoors cuddled up in a warm blanket with a hot cup of cocoa. The downside to this magical time is the winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin especially if you have dry skin. The low humidity levels and cold weather result in dry air which steals moisture from your skin leaving you with red, itchy, flaky skin and chapped lips. None of these has to happen as with these winter skincare tips for dry skin you will be able to counteract these effects and keep your skin looking youthful and smooth.
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Winter Skincare Tips for Dry Skin You Should Follow
1. Moisturizing is essential
During winter your skin needs more moisture than usual. Applying your moisturizer right after washing helps seal the dampness into the skin. Avoid over-the-counter moisturizers that have petroleum-based ingredients as these can actually further dry your skin. Opt for natural oil-based moisturizers instead of water-based. Look for hydrating ingredients such as lavender, jojoba, and chamomile which are great for soothing itchy dry skin during winter. Keep a bottle near your shower and at every sink and apply amply throughout winter.
2. Lower the thermostat and invest in a humidifier
Picture this, it is chilly outside and you are indoors with the heat cranked up while dancing in your onesie. Amazing right? Wrong, see central heat can make the air in your house drier. Set your thermostat at a cool setting of between 68°F to 72°F which will ensure you maintain healthy skin. Invest in a humidifier and run in the rooms that you spend the most time in as it helps add moisture to dry winter air. This will help your skin stay hydrated throughout the season.
SEE ALSO: 5 Reasons Why Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel is a Game-Changer
3. It’s time to switch up your shower habits
This is one of the most unknown winter skincare tips. With the insanely cold weather outside, soaking under a steaming hot shower sounds like a dream come true. Well, you should probably avoid this during winter as going from cold air to hot air in the shower abruptly is not good for your skin. Stick to lukewarm baths and showers. You may also need to cut back on your soap usage. Before you gag, soaps are incredibly drying on the skin especially when you are feeling dried out and it is freezing outside. Focus on the exposed areas of your skin such as your face, feet, and hands, rinse the rest out with lukewarm water. If this sounds insane try ayurvedic soaps that do not lather.
4. Try out milk baths
One of Cleopatra’s little secrets. With winter often comes irritated and itchy skin. Physical exfoliation using scrubs may not be the best option during winter as your skin needs to be handled gently. Milk is rich in Vitamins A, B, and D which are very beneficial to your skin. It also contains lactic acid which is an alpha hydroxy acid that is commonly considered as a gentle way to loosen the bond between healthy skin cells and dead skin cells. Simply pour a gallon of whole milk into your bath water to help calm irritation, protect your dry skin against the chilly weather and exfoliate. You can also add essential oils and honey for additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
CHECK OUT: Easy Home Remedies for Relieving Dry Skin
5. Stay hydrated and eat right
As within, so without. Hydrating your skin from the inside out is key. Eat foods or take supplements rich in omega 3 or omega 6 fatty acids such as flaxseed oil and fish oil to help ease dry skin from the inside. Vitamin C and Zinc also play a major role in supporting the production of elastin and collagen. Aside from drinking 2 liters of water a day, try eating watermelons, apples, oranges, cantaloupe, cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, and celery which have high water content.
FUN READ: Easy Tips to Keep Your Skin Glowing While on Vacation
With winter here, the most important thing you should keep in mind is to ensure you stay moisturized throughout. Hang in there, beautiful spring is on its way. What winter skincare tips for dry skin do you use? Share in the comments below.
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