Does your skin feel itchy and stretchy? Does it look dry and dull? Do you feel like the glow’s gone? Well, looks like winter is here and your skin is the victim.
That’s right. Winter brings with it a ton of skin woes that will make you scramble for solutions. Yes, dry, itchy, and flaky skin is a winter mandate. The low humidity or lack of moisture, along with dry harsh windy weather, cold temperatures are all contributors to your skin woes.
This means that as the weather changes your beauty regime should change too. A slight tweak in your routine will not only work wonders but will also ensure that you continue flaunting fabulous, radiant skin, all season long.
So, say goodbye to winter skin woes and hello to gorgeous skin!
Understanding dry winter skin
Cold climates and lack of humidity cause dry winter skin conditions, medically known as Xerosis. This condition is brought in conjunction with dead skin cells and fatty acids (lipids) which work as natural protectors for our skin. The harsh winter climate is rough on this outer skin barrier, thus causing dryness and itchiness. Hot showers in winter also lead to dry skin making it look more withered than ever.
Identifying dry skin
If you are suffering from any of the below skin conditions during winter, then you have a dry winter skin problem.
- Flakiness
- Scratchy skin
- Raw itchiness
- Cracks on the skin, heels, lips
- Stinging, burning, or redness of the skin
How to treat dry winter skin
1. Apply moisturizer
The most important product in your beauty box is your moisturizer, and in winters, even more so. Winters can be dehydrating, that’s why using a heavier or a cream-based moisturizer helps. Humectants and emollients help to seal and hold the natural skin moisture thus hydrating the skin for a longer time. If you have oily skin, then opt for a moisturizing lotion instead of a cream-based moisturizer to lessen the chances of any acne break-outs. Don’t forget to moisturize your hands. It’s wise to carry some lotion or cream in your travel pack. It will help you to replenish your skin when you are out.
Pro-tip: The best time to apply a moisturizer is right after you wash your face, while your skin is still damp. This helps lock in moisture and hydrate the skin for longer.
2. Use a sunscreen
Even when it is cold, sunscreens are essential. That’s because, the sun comes out in winters too, and the rays are just as harmful. Just because you don’t feel the heat as much as you do during winter, does not lessen the damaging effects of the sun. SPF will protect your skin and prevent it from ageing, spots, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that shields your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Choose SPF 30 or higher for maximum protection.
Pro-tip: Your skin takes at least 30 minutes to absorb the sunscreen so apply accordingly before stepping out. And remember to keep reapplying every two hours as your sunscreen may wear off.
3. Avoid hot showers
Steaming hot water would seem like a dream bath in cold winter climates, but your skin will bear the brunt. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it crisp and brittle. That’s why have a quick and soothing shower with warm water. Avoid using harsh soaps and scrubbing roughly. Use a baby soap and be gentle on your skin.
Pro-tip: Remember to apply a moisturizer immediately after a shower to keep your skin hydrated, soft, and supple.
4. Indulge in a night routine
Night-time creams are an excellent way to rejuvenate dry skin. That’s because the skin repairs itself at night and produces new cells. It recharges itself and gets rid of daytime damage from external aggressors. Use a cream-based moisturizer to replenish skin with natural oils and moisture and to look radiant the next day.
Pro-tip: Do take care of your feet and hands. Liberally apply night cream to the heels of your feet and cover with socks. Similarly, with your hands, apply a good hand cream and cover with gloves. Remember, hands too get dry due to frequent washing.
5. Stay hydrated
Hydration is a must even during winters. Water is great for health and drinking enough water not only keeps your skin supple and plump but younger too. Moreover, an insufficient amount of water during winter can lead to dehydration and other issues like chapped lips, nosebleeds, headaches, dry cough, to name a few.
Pro-tip: A healthy, wholesome diet is a must. Include antioxidants and foods rich in Omega-3 to give your body all the nourishment it needs.
6. Easy on exfoliation
Come winter, you need to reduce the times you exfoliate your skin. Use a gentle exfoliate and don’t be too rough on your skin. Contrary to popular belief, exfoliation in winter is necessary as the dead cells on your skin’s surface will prevent the products from being absorbed by your skin.
Pro-tip: Dead skin cells are everywhere, even on your body. So don’t forget to exfoliate your body and enjoy smooth, nourished skin all winter.
7. Opt for natural face masks
Soothe your dry winter skin without the chemicals with a natural face mask. Ingredients like curd, milk cream, avocado, and coconut oil are highly moisturizing and work wonders in keeping skin soft, and winter woes at bay.
Pro-tip: Take 2 teaspoons of curd and 1 teaspoon of honey. Add a pinch of turmeric and mix well. Apply on your skin and rinse off after 20 minutes for nourished, hydrated skin.
8. Easy on exfoliation
Come winter, you need to reduce the times you exfoliate your skin. Use a gentle exfoliator and don’t be too rough on your skin. Contrary to popular belief, exfoliation in winter is necessary as the dead cells on your skin’s surface will prevent the products from being absorbed by your skin.
Pro-tip: Dead skin cells are everywhere, even on your body. So don’t forget to exfoliate your body and enjoy smooth, nourished skin all winter.
As cosy as the weather may seem, remember your skin bears the brunt. So don’t forget to follow these simple steps to keep your skin looking its healthiest best. You will not only feel good but you’ll also be able to enjoy the awesomeness of the weather to the fullest. Because this winter season, you deserve nothing but radiant, glowing skin.
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