The cold wind and low temperatures can wreak havoc on one’s skin and lead to dry, itchy and chapped skin. People with dry skin conditions tend to experience more problems than do people with normal and oily skin. A well-planned skin care routine for the cold weather will prevent common skin conditions, such as chapped lips, from occurring and keep the skin soft and smooth.
Using Moisturizers and Products for Dry Skin
Winters are a time when even oily skin tends to feel a little dry and stretched. Using special oil or cocoa butter-based moisturizers on the face and body will nourish the skin and prevent loss of moisture. Oil-based lotions and creams adhere well to the skin and provide a protective layer against the harsh cold. Plain Vaseline or petroleum jelly is also great for keeping the skin nourished and moisturized
Switching to cleansing lotions from body soaps and using facial cleansers designed for dry skin will also prove helpful in combating winter skin problems. According to Dr. Sheryl Clark, M.D. (The Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies II), people with sensitive skin should use moisturizers without perfumes or lanolin. Using a few drops of bath oil will help in keeping winter itch and dryness away.
Winter Skin Care for Men
Men who suffer from winter itch and dry skin should avoid using too much of aftershave since that will further dry up the skin and reduce moisture. According to Dr. Swinyer, M.D, (The Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies II) shaving in the evening before bedtime will also protect skin from a drastic change in temperature.
Precautions When Going Outdoors
Before going outdoors in winter, it is important to keep the following skin care tips in mind:
- Dressing in layers will keep the body warm and prevent overheating. It is easy to remove an extra jacket to reduce sweating and aggravating a dry skin itch. Also, wear loose clothing that will not rub against the skin or trap sweat leading to further irritation.
- Applying sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will prevent sunburn. Do not be misled by the thought that the sun in winters is not harsh or harmful. Always use a sunscreen or a foundation that has sunscreen blended in it.
- Wear gloves and socks after applying lotion or moisturizer. Covering hands and feet will protect them from the winter chill and low humidity and keep moisture sealed in.
- Apply lip balm or Vaseline on lips to prevent chapping. Avoid licking the lips since that will wick away the lip balm and cause further dryness.
Preventing Common Winter Skin Problems
There are a few common winter skin problems that most people face and here are the ways to treat and prevent them:
- For chapped lips, exfoliate gently with a toothbrush and apply a generous coat of lip balm or gloss.
- Dry cracked heels can be treated with warm water soaks, scrubbing the heels and moisturizing them. For more on treating cracked heels, do read Dealing with Cracked Heels.
- For dry, scaly skin use gentle cleansers instead of soap and avoid soaking in the bath for too long. Using lotion on slightly damp skin will seal in the moisture while a small humidifier or bowls of water placed around the radiator will humidify the air in the house.
Paying adequate attention to keeping the skin hydrated and moisturized will keep away winter itch and dryness. Do remember to drink plenty of water and eat a good amount of fruits and greens to cleanse the system, boost immunity and stay hydrated. Use these winter skin care tips to enjoy beautiful, glowing skin in the cold weather. For more on health and beauty, do read Dealing with Breast Engorgement and Natural Ways to Prevent Flu.
Resources:
- Kirchheimer, Sid. The Doctor’s Book of Home Remedies, II. Bantam Books (1995).
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