What to Do When Your Dry Skin Becomes Drier in Winter
Your skin is the foundation of your beauty, so it is essential to take extra care of it, especially when the weather outside becomes chilly and dry. Cold weather coupled with indoor heating can zap moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling dry, tight, and flaky. If you suffer from dry skin, you know that winter can be a particularly difficult time of year. But don't despair! There are some things you can do to help ease the dryness and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
First, let's take a look at what causes dry skin in the first place. Dry skin is caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin, which is known as the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum contains natural oils that help to keep the skin hydrated and plump. When these oils are stripped away, the skin can become dry, cracked, and irritated.
There are many things that can strip away these natural oils, including cold weather, indoor heating, harsh cleansers, hot showers, and more. So how do you combat dryness? Below are some tips to help you get through winter without your dry skin becoming an even bigger problem.
Use a humidifier:
Indoor heating can suck the moisture out of the air, leaving your skin parched. By using a humidifier in your home or office, you can add much-needed moisture back into the air and help relieve dryness. Just be sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria from building up.
Take shorter showers:
Hot water strips away natural oils from your skin so opt for warmer temperatures instead. In addition, try to limit yourself to 10 minutes or less in the shower or bath to further reduce drying out your skin.
Avoid harsh cleansers:
Soaps, shaving creams, and other cleansers can contain chemicals that further strip away natural oils from your skin. Look for products that are labeled "gentle" or "for sensitive skin" and avoid those that contain sulfates or other harsh ingredients. Consider using an oil-based cleanser as they can actually help to replenish natural oils rather than stripping them away.
Moisturize immediately after showering:
One of the best times to apply moisturizer is right after you step out of the shower or bath while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps to lock in moisture and prevent drying out throughout the day. Be sure to choose a moisturizer that is right for your skin type - if you're not sure what type of moisturizer to use, ask a dermatologist or aesthetician for advice. And don't forget to apply sunscreen! Even in winter, UV rays can damage your skin so always remember to protect yourself when spending time outdoors.
Dry skin doesn't have to ruin your winter fun - follow these tips and you'll be on your way to happy, healthy skin all season long!
