Don’t worry, it’s not just you! Dry, flaking skin is a common problem throughout the winter season due to cold temperatures, strong winds, and dry indoor heating.
You may notice that as the weather turns colder, you start experiencing:
Tightness
Itchiness
Scaliness
Irritation
All of these side effects can occur when the winter weather strips away moisture from your skin.
Thankfully, by ditching hot showers and using the right products, you can improve your skin health year-round.
This article will explain everything about relieving dry skin and how to build a perfect skin care regimen for the winter.
Tips for Relieving Dry Winter Skin
Follow these 10 winter skin care tips to make the most of the colder weather.
Use Gentle, Hydrating Cleansers
Harsh body washes and facial cleansers can strip your natural oils which leads to dry and itchy skin.
Instead of sulfates and drying alcohols, try switching to a cleanser with gentle ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to help your skin retain moisture.
Apply Thicker, Richer Moisturizers
You might be able to get away without moisturizing in the summer, but the winter is a whole different ballgame.
After cleansing, be sure to use a rich, thick moisturizer to help soothe your skin and protect it from the cold weather.
The best winter moisturizers have ingredients like ceramides and shea butter to help lock in moisture and nourish your skin barrier.
Use Facial Oils as Needed
If your skin is very dry, mix a couple drops of facial oil like marula, argan or jojoba oil into your moisturizer or apply separately before moisturizer. This gives an extra boost of hydration.
Invest in a Humidifier
Run a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep and in any rooms where you spend a lot of time. The added moisture prevents your skin from drying out.
Take Shorter, Cooler Showers
Limit hot showers to 5-10 minutes max with lukewarm water to avoid stripping your skin’s natural oils. Rinse with cool water at the end to close pores.
Exfoliate Regularly to Remove Flakes
Gently exfoliate away dead skin cells 2-3 times a week to reveal fresh new skin. Use soft scrubs with jojoba beads or chemical exfoliants like lactic acid.
Use SPF if You’re Concerned about Anti-Aging or Burning
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen in the mornings, even on cloudy days. UV rays penetrate windows and damage skin in ways that cannot be seen until you are much older.
Eat Foods High in Healthy Fats
Consume foods rich in omega fatty acids like salmon, avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to reinforce your skin barrier. Stay hydrated and avoid excess sugar.
Boost Moisture With Hydrating Skincare
Use hydrating skincare products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, plant oils, shea butter and dimethicone to attract and seal in moisture.
Apply Overnight Masks and Lip Treatments
Apply an intensive overnight mask and lip treatment before bed to wake up to smooth, soft skin and lips. Look for shea butter, glycerin, and ceramide-containing formulas.
Causes of Dry Winter Skin
Dry and sensitive skin is common in the winter thanks to:
Lower humidity
Harsh winds and cold air
Dry indoor heating
Taking a hot shower
Reduced sun exposure
All of these factors dehydrate your skin by pulling away moisture from your barrier.
Summary: How to Help Dry Skin in Winter
Dry skin is no fun, but by following these tips, you’ll keep your complexion glowing all season long.
And don’t forget – be sure to adjust your skin care routine based on environmental changes in your area.
Remember, skincare is not one size fits all!
Overall, be sure to take care of your largest organ – it needs a little extra TLC in the winter!
