When the temperature drops, so does the amount of moisture in the air. Cold, dry winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin. A change in weather means you should change your skin care routine to make up for the lack of moisture in the air, the dry heat in your home, and the hot showers and baths you take to keep warm and toasty.
In addition to the itchy and irritated feeling of winter skin, dry skin also makes lines and wrinkles more pronounced and noticeable. Fortunately, there are ways to combat winter weather so your skin continues to glow and look healthy throughout the blustery season.
Juan-Carlos Caballero, MD, and our professional team at Warrenton Dermatology put together these six tips to help you save your skin and look your best this dry, cold winter.
Did we mention that you should keep your skin moisturized? The best way to address the loss of moisture is to add moisture, but not just any moisturizer and not just any time. In the winter, swap out your moisturizing lotion for a moisturizing cream to help soothe dry skin. Also, apply moisturizing cream right after you bathe or wash your face to keep the moisture locked in.
Hot water, which feels great on a cold day, can strip your skin of natural oils, which contributes to dryness. So, while a nice, long, hot shower probably feels great after tromping around in the snow, do your best to keep your shower quick and use warm(er) water.
Shield your skin as best you can from the elements, which can include wind, sun, and snow in the winter.
You may think that a cold, sunny day means the sun’s rays are not very strong, and maybe you forgo your regular sunscreen. Don’t. Winter sun is just as damaging to your skin as the summer sun. In addition to sun protection, wear gloves and a scarf to protect your skin against the elements.
While moisturizer can address the loss of moisture on your skin, a humidifier can remedy the loss of moisture in the air. Forced heat tends to suck the moisture out of the air, making your home dry. Installing a humidifier, especially in your bedroom, can help keep the air and your skin moist.
Because you don’t sweat as much in the winter, you tend to drink less water. Water can help hydrate your skin from the inside out, so don’t forget to sip water between your hot cocoas and tea.
With dry, cold weather, you need to up your game in terms of hydrating skin care products. Change out your drying astringents and bar soaps and trade them in for mild cleansers and non-alcohol-based toners. Additionally, products that contain fragrance can irritate dry skin, so avoid those, too..
For more information about how to rescue your skin from the dry, cold winter weather, call Warrenton Dermatology at our office in Warrenton, Virginia, or make an appointment online.
