11 TIPS TO AVOID DRY SKIN IN WINTER

When the weather outside turns gloomy and unsightly, our skin is quick to follow. It doesn’t have to be this way though. Most of us struggle with extremely dry skin in winter. Nobody likes to experience dry, crackly, and flaky skin. With the right care, you can get your old skin back.

Without further ado, let’s get the discussion started.

1. SEEK A SPECIALIST

The first thing all of us need to do is visit a skincare specialist. It might seem like an investment but it is surely worth it. The skin expert will analyze your skin type, troubleshoot your existing routine and give you products that will eliminate the dryness and make your skin soft and supple.

And no, you won’t be stuck with high-end products. You can ask your dermatologist to recommend products that are within your range and you will have a skincare regimen in place that works.

2. MOISTURIZE

The moisturizer you used during the spring and summer months might not work for you during the harsh winter months. If that’s the case, it’s time to switch things up. Look for an oil-based moisturizer instead of a gel or water-based one.

Look for non-clogging oils such as avocado oil, mineral oil, primrose oil, or almond oil. We need to nourish our skin without causing acne. Any moisturizer that contains humectants such as glycerine, sorbitol, and alpha-hydroxy acids will also work well.

3. SUNSCREEN MATTERS

A lot of individuals make the mistake of skipping the sunscreen during the winter months which further adds to the skin damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and all the exposed parts of your body at least 30 minutes before stepping out of the house. Continue to reapply it throughout the day.

4. YOUR HANDS NEED EXTRA HELP

Throughout the day, we use our hands to perform all the tasks; work, clean, wash dishes, do laundry, and essentially everything. They need a little extra TLC during the harsh climates. If your hands feel itchy and dry, use a thick cream to moisturize them throughout the day. Wear gloves while stepping out. Make sure to use gentle soaps that don’t strip away the moisture from your hands.

5. STAY CLEAR OF WET CLOTHES

If your clothes, socks, or gloves get wet, immediately change them. Wet clothes can lead to a variety of skin issues such as eczema, psoriasis, cracking, and itching.

6. USE THE HUMIDIFIER

We all need central heating systems to survive. One major downside to this comfort is that our skin suffers big time due to dry surroundings. Invest in a good humidifier. It will moisturize the air and will prevent your skin from drying out. If you have a larger space, you might want to disperse multiple moisturizers throughout the space.

7. BAN SUPER-HOT SHOWERS AND BATHS

One of the most relaxing things we all like to do during the cold winter months is take nice, long, steamy hot showers or baths. Most of us do it and feel quite relaxed afterward. However, this routine strips our skin of its natural oils and makes it super dry. Dial down the temperature to a point where it’s comfortable but not overwhelmingly hot.

Pat dry your skin. Apply a thick body lotion and top it off with an oil of your choice. If you follow this routine religiously, you will surely see a difference in a matter of one week.

8. HYDRATE YOUR BODY FROM WITHIN

It is important to keep yourself hydrated from within as well. You cannot expect your skin to look hydrated when your body isn’t. During the winter months, we all cut down on our water intake. Make it a point to consume the recommended amount of water as per your height and weight. Consume a healthy balanced diet that is high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.

Avocados, nuts, and other healthy fats will work amazingly well.

9. AVOID OVER-EXFOLIATION

Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and is an important part of any skincare routine. However, over-exfoliation can do more harm than good and lead to irritated skin. If your skin gets very sensitive during winters, it’s time to switch to a chemical exfoliant rather than a physical one. Buffing away the dead skin cells once a week is more than enough to keep your skin hydrated and glowy.

10. OCCLUSIVES ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND

If by following all the tips above, your skin is still feeling dry, it’s time to introduce occlusives into your routine. Products like shea butter, cocoa butter, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, and petroleum jelly lock in the moisture and make your skin soft. Makes sure you are using these as a final step to lock of all the goodness of your skincare routine. You can go ham on your hands and feet but avoid using more than a pea-sized amount on your face.

11. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS

Investing in the right products is a sure shot way to see results. Here are some of the best products to try out during the winter months:

RENEWAL LITE FACIAL LOTION

Dry skin can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. This renewal light facial lotion contains active complex help reverse visible signs of aging. The super-hydrating formula leads to visibly smoother, tighter skin and improves radiance for a healthy glow.

ANFISA SKIN LILOU RADIANT HYDRA-BALM

This product is known for its hydrating, anti-inflammatory, regenerative, anti-aging, soothing, barrier repairing properties. It is a perfectly packaged product for the winter months. Blooming with active botanical extracts and nourishing oils that are high in linoleic acid, it reduces inflammation and gives your skin a healthy glow.

SKIN MEDICA – HA5 REJUVENATING HYDRATOR

HA5® delivers both immediate and long-term benefits, instantly smoothes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, offers immediate hydration, improves the appearance of skin texture and roughness and is appropriate for all skin types.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

With a little bit of care and the right products, one can achieve that rosy glow and avoid dry skin in winter. Essentially, it comes down to a few lifestyle changes coupled with amazing skincare products. If you followed any of the tips mentioned in this article, let us know how they worked out for you.