Skincare Tips For Winter

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold.” 

As winter approaches, our skin starts to change.

During cooler months, there is less moisture in the air outside, and indoor heating systems can also be dehydrating to the skin. 

Dry air can also lead to tiny cracks on the surface of the skin, which can act as entry points for impurities that are painful and unsightly.

All this tells us that that winter is a challenging phase for our skin.

It is important to take special care of your skin during the cold season and combat the dryness that comes along.

1. Refrain from hot water

I know you will hate me for saying this, but yes, avoid hot water. Not only does it rips off all the moisture from the skin, but also takes away the natural oils. It is very tempting in winters to take a hot dip, but if you love you skin, use lukewarm water instead. 

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.

2. Do not over exfoliate

Exfoliating the skin helps in getting rid of dead cells. You have to be careful during winters because your skin barrier is already compromised due to the dry and cold weather.

Exfoliating your skin once a week is fine – this helps in boosting skin regeneration and better product absorption. Also, you should exfoliate depending on your skin type. If you have very dry skin, exfoliate your skin lightly. If you have combination and oily skin, once a week is fine.

3. Diet 

Consume a lot of seasonal fruits and veggies. Berries are exceptional sources of vitamins and antioxidants that your skin needs to stay healthy during the cold weather. Strawberries, grapes, blueberries, raspberries, or cherries – pick anything you love.

Also, if you think that you are missing out on the hydration part (limited water intake), you can cover that up with fruits, veggies, and other food items such as soups, salads, juices, and milk. In this way, your body will get the nutrients to keep the skin healthy.

4. Drink plenty of fluids

Skin dehydration occurs when the body lacks moisture both inside and out. The average person needs from 8 to 12 cups of water per day. Your skin will let you know when you’re dehydrated by making it look dull, tired, irritated, flaky, and rough.

With hot temperatures during the summer months, it’s natural to automatically drink more fluids, but don’t lessen your water intake just because it’s getting cooler outside. You might not be craving a tall glass of ice water as you would in summer, but try room temperature water or a refreshing cup of warm tea to keep hydrated.

5. Take care of your lips, hands and feet

Chapped lips in the cold season are a downer. They can be painful when exposed to extremely cold temperatures, and chapping can lead to infections. Make sure to protect your lips with a moisturizing balm that includes SPF.

Just like your lips, the skin on your hands and feet is thin and delicate and can be susceptible to chapping in cold weather. Keep your arms and legs moisturized with hand and foot cream and reapply throughout the day, especially after washing them.