Winter Skincare 101: How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Healthy
Winter is a wonderful time of year, filled with snow, hot cocoa, cozy fires, and the holidays. Unfortunately, it’s also the time when skin becomes dry, dull and dehydrated. The cold and icy outdoor weather coupled with indoor heating systems drastically affects the skin. In this winter skincare 101 guide, we’ll go over tips and tricks to keep your skin healthy and hydrated during the winter months.
1. Don’t forget to exfoliate
One of the best ways to maintain soft and supple skin during winters is through exfoliation. Removing dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of the skin will help in revealing a brighter and healthier complexion. Use a gentle exfoliant or a scrub and gently massage on the face and body. Avoid exfoliating too much, which can lead to irritation and redness.
2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
Winter air can make the skin dry, rough, and flaky. This makes it essential to apply a moisturizer immediately after a shower or a bath. Moisturizing the skin helps in preventing water loss from the skin, thereby keeping it hydrated. You should apply a good moisturizer at least 2-3 times a day to keep skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a moisturizer that is rich in natural oils like jojoba, coconut, or avocado.
3. Use Sunscreen
The sun’s harmful UV rays are not only a concern during summers but also during winters. Even on cloudy or hazy days, almost 80% of the UV rays can penetrate and damage the skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 to protect your skin from harmful rays. Don’t forget to apply it to your face, neck, and other exposed areas.
4. Stay hydrated with Water and Antioxidants
Staying hydrated is key to keep your skin supple and healthy. Drink plenty of water every day to keep your skin moisturized from the inside. Drinking antioxidant – rich herbal teas and soups will also help to keep skin protected from oxidative damage. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which tend to dehydrate the skin.
5. Use gentle Lightweight Fabrics
During winter months, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics, and avoid heavy materials like wool, polyester, and synthetic materials. These fabrics can trap moisture and irritants next to your skin and can cause itching, rashes, and dryness. Choose fabrics that are made of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or silk. They allow air to circulate, absorb moisture and keep skin healthy.
6. Indulge in a Warm Bath
Hot water is not ideal for the skin, but a warm bath can do wonders during winters. Indulging in a warm bath with essential oils and bath salts can help in reducing inflammation, calming nerves, improving circulation, and reducing muscle pain. Soaking in a warm bath for at least 10-15 minutes can also help in softening the skin and opening the pores.
7. Humidify Your Home and Office
During winter months, the air tends to get dry, causing the skin to lose moisture. To combat this, use a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air. Dry indoor air is one of the common causes of dry and itchy skin. Using a humidifier will help in keeping your skin and mucous membranes moist, thereby reducing the chances of infections and allergies.
8. Add Antioxidants to Your Diet
Antioxidants are essential for maintaining healthy skin during winters. Add food items that are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids. These can help in reducing inflammation, preventing damage to the skin, and enhancing pigmentation. Consume citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and fatty fishes that are high in antioxidants and nourish the skin from within.
9. Don’t overheat your Home and Workplace
Overheating your home or workplace during winters can lead to dry skin, as the artificial heat tends to evaporate the moisture from the skin. Try to keep the temperature to a comfortable level of around 21-25 degrees Celsius. Also, avoid sitting close to direct heat sources such as radiators or heaters. If your skin gets dry, use a thicker moisturizer that can compensate for the lack of moisture in the air.
10. Protect your Hands, Feet, and Lips
Our hands, feet, and lips are the most exposed parts of the body during winters. As these parts are devoid of oil glands, they tend to dry up faster. Keep them well-moisturized by using a good balm or lotion that can rejuvenate the skin. A pair of gloves, socks, and lip balm can also come handy in protecting these parts from the cold air.
FAQs
Q. Can I use a regular moisturizer for winters?
Yes, you can use a regular moisturizer in winters, but it’s recommended to use one specifically formulated for intense hydration. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and natural oils like almond or jojoba that can provide long-lasting hydration.
Q. Can I skip sunscreen in winters?
No, you should never skip sunscreen, even in winters. UV rays are harmful to the skin and can cause many skin problems, including skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful rays, regardless of the season.
Q. Is it safe to exfoliate skin during winters?
Yes, it is safe to exfoliate the skin during winters. However, you should use a gentle exfoliant or scrub to avoid any irritation or redness. Avoid exfoliating too much as excessive exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness.
Q. Can I use a humidifier only at night?
Yes, you can use a humidifier at night or during the day as per your convenience. However, it’s recommended to use it for at least 8-10 hours to maintain the ideal level of moisture in the air.
Q. Can hot water baths cause dryness?
Yes, Hot water baths can cause dryness in the skin as it tends to strip off the natural oils of the skin. It’s recommended to use warm water and avoid prolonged soaking in hot water.
Conclusion
Winter is a challenging time for skin, and one must adapt their skincare routine accordingly to maintain healthy skin. By following these simple tips and tricks, you can keep your skin hydrated, soft and supple and prevent skin problems like dryness and itchiness. Remember to moisturize, exfoliate, and protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, and you’re sure to have healthy glowing skin through the winter months.
