Winter has its own charm but unfortunately the weather is not fun for skin.....
skin
Winter has its own charm but unfortunately the weather is not fun for skin. Winter can wreak havoc on your skin - making it dry, itchy, and irritated. We have compiled 10 tips you can follow to keep your skin super happy during winter...
We all love winter. The chilly season makes us feel fresh and alive. Cosy jumpers, boots, scarves, hot tea, dry fruits and what not! Winter has its own charm. But, unfortunately, winter is the time when our skin does not like to cooperate with us. During these months, our skin tends to get dry, itchy, and dull due to lack of moisture. Cold weather and low humidity levels result in dry air, which then steals moisture away from the skin every day. Without immediate care, dry skin can lead to cracking and bleeding, and harsh winter wind makes the problem worse. But there are many simple ways to combat the causes of dry winter skin and help keep your skin feeling moist and supple all season long. Here are some tips:
A big no to hot showers: You might be highly tempted to take a hot shower as it feels comforting in winter but that is the biggest mistake you will be making. Hot showers may feel great but they can dry out your skin. That’s because when water is too warm, it can actually strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to maintain proper moisture levels. Instead, use lukewarm water to shower and wash your face. Once you have taken a lukewarm shower, apply a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides. This will keep the moisture barrier intact and prevent dryness.
Shop your winter products intelligently: If you want to have healthy and glowing winter skin then go for mild skin care products. Choose cleansers that contain moisturisers to avoid stripping your skin of its natural moisture barrier. Some over-the-counter moisturisers have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in the winter months. Be sure to choose a smart formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients.
Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise: The key to have a smooth skin during winter lies in moisturising. Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.
Also, consider replacing your standard moisturizer with a water-based one instead.
Don’t forget applying sunscreen: Just because it is winter, it doesn’t mean you should put away your sunscreen. Though you might think that the sun is not harsh during winters, but the UV rays can damage your skin. So before you head out on a winter day, be sure to apply a liberal amount of sunscreen on your face and other exposed areas for protection. SPF or daily sunscreen is always your best defence against aging.
Stay hydrated: The air is drier in winter. And as a result, water evaporates from your body easily. Hence, you need to keep your skin hydrated. An easy way to keep it hydrated is by drinking lots of water; swap your coffee for green tea which has great antioxidant effects. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time. Apply coconut oil or virgin olive oil every night before hitting the bed. Both the oils are high in hydrating and skin repairing qualities. Regular facials will help to keep your skin clean, clear and hydrated whilst maximising your everyday skincare regime too.
Use hand creams: Hands can become chapped and sore in the winter months. One of the easiest ways to prevent dry hands is by adding a hand cream such as Neutrogena hand cream to your skin care routine. Stash one in your kitchen, bathroom, and at your desk - trust us, your hands will thank you.
Pay attention to your feet: Feet often become dry and cracked in the winter months. Your feet need some extra care too as the heels are very prone to get cracked in winters. Choose glycerine-based creams and petroleum jelly to moisturize your feet. Also, make sure you exfoliate the skin on your feet occasionally so that it can absorb the moisturizer easily. Vaseline petroleum jelly works best for cracked feet.
Eat right: Eating foods high in water content can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Because that’s the way to keep your skin nourished. Consume a lot of seasonal fruits and veggies. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. Also consider Be Well’s omega-3 supplement, or consume more fatty fish and flaxseed to give your skin the building blocks it needs to appear supple and smooth.
Choose appropriate clothing: Many cold-weather fabrics can aggravate dry winter skin. Winter skin is extremely fragile, and exposure to allergens can trigger your symptoms. Many people are allergic to wool but cannot resist the temptation to wear their winter knits. If this is the same scenario with you, always choose winter wear that is made from high-grade wool. If possible, go for winter wear made from cotton or synthetic wool or any other material.
Refreshing homemade masks: Homemade skin care masks and face packs using natural ingredients protect your skin from chemical exposure. Ingredients like honey, jojoba oil, avocado oil, aloe vera, and banana help in maintaining the moisture levels of your skin, prevent skin issues, and keep you glowing. Mix what you like together to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for lasting hydration.
