Cold weather can take a toll on skin, which is why it’s important to protect your skin in the winter. Avoid dry, damaged, cracked, itchy skin this year with these 5 helpful skin care tips and make sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way this winter season.
1. Apply Sunscreen Daily
Just because you can’t feel the heat, doesn’t mean the sun isn’t damaging your skin, which is why applying sunscreen daily is crucial, even in the winter. Apply to exposed skin 30 minutes before you go outside and reapply when necessary for full coverage.
2. Moisturize More
Look for an oil-based “ointment” moisturizer, as the oil creates a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture. But not all oils are equal, so make sure you get a “non clogging” oil. Mineral, primrose, avocado, and almond oils are all examples of moisturizers that will defend your skin against dryness this winter.
3. Humidify for Happy Skin
The first thing you do when it gets cold is crank up the heat, however the hot, dry air often seeps moisture out of the skin. To avoid cracked, itchy skin this winter, hook up a humidifier to add more moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out.
4. Avoid Long, Hot Showers & Baths
Though a long, hot shower might seem like the perfect thing to warm you up on a cold day, it won’t your skin any favors. Skip the scalding showers and boiling baths, as they break down lipid barriers in the skin and cause skin to lose moisture. Stick to bathing in warm water and avoid staying in for too long.
5. Limit Lathering
Many soaps contain ingredients that irritate or inflame skin. Use less soap and limit lathering to necessary areas like hands, feet, armpits and genitals to prevent dry, raw skin and choose products that are fragrance-free and contain moisturizers.
Call DC Derm Docs to book a skincare consultation.