The cold winter days are upon us once again. If you’re like me you’ve already stocked up on extra blankets, sweaters and everything else warm and fuzzy. However, there’s more to protecting your skin from the elements than an XL jersey. The cold also brings uncomfortable dryness to your face, hands, and feet. For some people, the problem is worse than just a general tight, dry feeling: They get skin so dry it results in flaking, cracking, even eczema.
Here are 6 tips that will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy this winter.
1. Seek a Specialist
If you go to your local pharmacy, it would be hard to find a salesperson who can give you good advice. That’s why a visit to a dermatologist even once is a good investment. A specialist can analyze your skin type, understand your current skin care process, and give you advice on the skin care products you should be using.
2. Moisturize More
You may have found a moisturizer that works just fine in spring and summer. But as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. Find an “ointment” moisturizer that’s oil-based, rather than water-based, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion.
3. Cover with Sunscreen
Winter sun can still damage your skin even if it is cold outside. Windburn and sunburn are one evil combination. When freezing temps and harsh winds leave your skin dry, agitated, and pretty much in the fetal position, UV rays have a clear shot at your skin.
4. Lend a helping hand to your um….hands
Your hands are easy victims to the climate because the skin on your hands is thinner than most parts of your body and also have less oil glands. Make sure to keep lotion with you to keep them moist and supple.
5. Grease Up Your Feet
During the winter, your feet need the strong stuff. Use lotions that contain petroleum jelly or glycerine. Also use exfoliants for dead skin. That helps any moisturizers you use to sink in faster and deeper.
6. No Superhot Baths
Soaking in a hot bath feels great after being out in the cold. But the extreme heat of a hot shower or bath actually breaks down the barriers in your skin, which can lead to a loss of moisture.
