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A Guide to Winter Skin Care

Ningthoujam Sandhyarani
Winter does horrible things to your skin. But, if you stick to some remedies for yourself; you will see and feel the signs of improved skin within a short time for sure. Here are several skin care guidelines which tell you how to prevent and overcome dry skin during the winters.
You can tell winter has arrived when you come across symptoms of dry and brittle skin, lusterless hair, and reduced glow. Dry skin not only looks dull, but it also introduces other skin problems, like itchiness, feeling of tightness, and pain. In some people, the problems are worse, ranging from cracking, peeling, to uncomfortable eczema.
The reasons for increased skin dryness and chapped skin during winter are lack of moisture in the atmosphere, low temperature and harsh winds. Collectively, these environmental factors cause depletion of natural skin moisture and oils, thereby leaving your skin dry and dull.
Also, the usage of room heaters tends to worsen the skin condition. With these simple yet effective tips, make sure your skin remains soft and supple this winter.

Keep the Water Warm

Using very hot water to beat cold winter temperatures is the main reason for depletion of skin moisture.
Hot water along with harsh soaps and chemical based beauty products makes the skin dry. Use lukewarm water for cleaning and bathing purposes and avoid very hot water as far as possible.

Use a Skin Moisturizer

A thick, skin moisturizer of a superior quality is a must have product to protect your skin from the harsh cold. It helps in keeping the skin moist, supple, and soft.
Do not apply moisturizer on damp or wet skin. Instead, you can dab your skin dry after a shower or a hand wash and then apply the regular skin moisturizer.

Use Broad Spectrum Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen is not just restricted to the summer season. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of a trusted brand on your face and other exposed skin areas, prior to stepping out in the sun even during the winters.

Occasional Skin Exfoliation

It is an easy way to get rid of dead cells.
Likewise, skin care for dry skin includes exfoliation of the face and the skin with a gentle scrub. Take some in your palm, apply it on the concerned area of your skin, and massage gently. It increases the effectiveness of using a skin moisturizer.

Feet and Heel Care

During winters, it is not unusual to have patches of dry skin on your feet and cracks in the heels.
The point is, you should replace your regular body lotions with stronger versions. Best feet lotions that can be used in winter are those that contain glycerin and petroleum jelly. Apply it on your feet and heels and massage gently to retain soft skin.

Wear Hand Gloves

The skin on the hand remains wet more frequently than other areas of the body. And the worst part is, that it is thinner than the rest of the skin.
The worst part is, that it is thinner than the rest of the skin. Thus, cracks and itching in hands are commonly manifested signs of winter. If you experience the same, make a habit of wearing gloves and consider moisturizing your hands after every time you wash them.

Take Short Showers
Taking long baths or soaking in bathtubs for long are responsible for dry skin. Exposing your skin to water for a long time does nothing good for the skin. Rather, it depletes the skin oils, resulting in increased dryness. So, it is advised that you keep your shower sessions brief and short during the winters.

Install a Room Humidifier

As aforementioned, dry skin in winter is partly caused due to lack of humidity in air. So, a simple tip is to use a room humidifier. This home appliance helps replenish humidity in the rooms, which is reduced by usage of hot furnaces and heaters.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drinking ample amounts of water is not only beneficial for your skin, but your overall health.
You might have already come across the signs and symptoms of skin dehydration and lack of water in the body. Considering the fact that water keeps the skin hydrated, you should drink lots of water and healthy fluids as a part of skin care regimen.
On a concluding note, reduce the use of chemical peels and alcohol based astringents during the winters. Follow these tips and adopt the dry skin remedies which will make your skin look soft and fresh.