Best Winter skin Care Tips

 

Up until this week, in most parts of the country, the weather has been very mild. Now that the really cold weather has arrived (along with the wind and snow) and we are turning the heat up in our homes and offices, many of us are experiencing dry, itchy winter skin. The reason that we get so dry is because moisture diffuses from our skin cells (which are composed primarily of water) into the air. This leaves our skin parched, dull, ashen and even cracked. Heating systems produce very dry air which further robs our skin of moisture. Five easy steps can help heal dry skin, renew it and leave soft, supple, beautiful skin.

Take shorter, cooler showers

A hot shower might feel good on a cold winter day, but the hot temperatures strip away moisture. Fix dry skin by reducing the water temperature as much as you can stand and limit your showers to 10 minutes or less.

Water

You’ve probably heard it a hundred times before, but water really can help with most problems. Dry skin is no different; make sure you drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day for happy, hydrated skin.

Use a gentle Daily cleanser

Some cleansers used to tackle acne contain skin-drying ingredients—a double whammy when you already have dry skin due to the weather. A gentle cleanser like Cetaphil will help take away dirt and oil without over-drying your already dry skin.

Apply Lotion right after Shower

Quickly pat dry your skin after a shower and apply a thick moisturizing cream or ointment while your skin is still damp. The cream adds a barrier on your dry skin, essentially “locking in” moisture. Using a moisturizer formulated with 12 percent lactic acid to fix rough, dry skin patches. Ask your pharmacist which lotion he or she recommends.

Lip Balm

Don’t forget about your lips during these harsh winter months! The skin on your lips is often the most prone to becoming dry and chapped. In order to avoid those unattractive chapped lips, keep a lip balm or petroleum jelly with you at all times and avoid licking the lips as this will only make it worse.

Swap the Soap

Try to avoid using soap or wash-off cleansers during the winter months as these can strip your skin of essential oils and leave it feeling taut. Instead, treat yourself to a rich, creamy cleanser which will help nourish and balance the skin.