10 Tips to Keep Your Skin Glowing This Winter
The cool and crisp air heralds the arrival of winter and a season of festivals and festivities. While the end of the year signals amuch-needed end to the summer heat, it also brings along a host of skin woes for many. Extreme weather conditions – be it hot or cold – are equally bad for your skin. Doctors often notice a rise in cases of eczema, dandruff, lichen planus, and psoriasis treatment needs.
The lack of humidity in the air robs the skin of its natural moisture in winters. This leads to dry skin that can crack or even bleed in extreme cases. A host of ensuing skin diseases sees many people seeking skin treatments towards the end of the year. However, following the correct steps to skin care in winter can prevent many dry skin afflictions. Let’s take a look at 10 important skin care tips to follow as the year end draws to a close.
- Avoid hot showers
As tempting as it may feel to hop into a hot bath in winter, avoid doing so daily. Hot water drains out the moisture in your skin and leaves it drier than before. Use lukewarm water to bathe and reserve the hot baths as an occasional treat.
- Moisturize when damp
Your skin absorbs moisture best when it is damp. Dab on some moisturizer immediately after you bathe for the best results. Keep your favourite lotion handy at the wash basin or near the shower so that you can reach out for it immediately.
- Invest in a humidifier
If you live in areas where the temperatures drop too low, you are no stranger to dry, cracking skin. Buying a humidifier will truly help ease your skin woes. A humidifier will add much needed moisture to the air in your home and you are guaranteed to notice the differences in your skin and hair health.
- Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated internally is equally important. We often forget to drink sufficient liquids in winters as we do not sweat or feel thirsty. This can lead to a dehydrated skin. Drink sufficient water and add fruit juice, green tea, and coconut water for variety. Avoid sodas and energy drinks.
- Go natural
Opt for natural remedies as much as you can. Experts have often stated the rise in cases of skin conditions such as psoriasis and lichen planus are to be blamed on the increased exposure of the skin to chemicals in products. Opt for natural moisturizers such as coconut oil, shea butter, milk cream, and honey.
- Stock up Omega 3
Consuming a diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids will give you a naturally healthy glow in your skin and helps work against the dryness in the winter air. Include eggs, fish, soybeans, flaxseeds, olive oil, cod liver oil, chia seeds, and walnuts in your daily diet as much as you can.
- Opt for organic
Particularly if you are undergoing psoriasis treatment, you would want to avoid all kinds of harsh chemicals and cosmetics. For healthy and supple winter skin opt for organic soaps and skin cleansers that are free of alcohol and artificial fragrances. Look for terms such as allergen-free and organic when shopping.
- Stick with what works
Many people make the mistake of changing their skin care products in winter. If your regular cleanser, toner, and moisturizer have worked for you all year around, there is no reason why you should opt for a different product in winter. A sudden change could lead to a skin rash.
- Make use of gloves
The skin on your hands is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of your body. Moreover, we perform many household chores which expose the hands to water and harsh detergent. Make use of rubber or plastic gloves to protect your skin in winters while doing the dishes or the laundry.
- Skip the facial
Unless you are scheduled for a particular skin treatment, skip the regular facials at the beauty parlour. An exposure to bleach and harsh face scrubs will strip your skin of the little moisture that it has managed to retain. Opt for a homemade face-pack to cleanse and brighten up your skin.
