Winter can wreak havoc on skin, and you'll need to take extra care of it through the season to keep it looking healthy and to prevent dry, irritated, cracked and itchy skin. The National Institutes of Health explains that indoor heating and cold air outdoors drop humidity, and that some heating systems also dry out skin. It also identifies the key areas of the body prone to dryness: lower legs and thighs, arms and sides of the abdomen. When caring for skin in the winter, pay close attention to these spots.
Exfoliate Regularly
"Fitness" magazine points out the importance of exfoliating the skin in winter, and recommends doing so before bathing or showering. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells from dry skin. Use a body brush or exfoliating cream.
Bathe Less Frequently
Take baths and showers no more than once a day and keep them to under 10 minutes, advises to the University of Iowa Department of Dermatology. More bathing will strip skin of its natural hydrating oils and promote dryness. Pruned skin is a sure sign you've removed a significant amount of oil from the skin, explains dermatologist David Bank to "Fitness." Wash your face only once a day, preferably at night, to remove makeup and dirt, for the same reason, advises dermatologist Judith Hellman in "Fitness."
Bathe the Right Way
Baths and showers be with warm, not hot, water. Hot water removes moisturizing oils from the skin, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. Keeping the door closed while bathing will keep helpful humidity in the room, too. Always use a mild, moisturizing soap. When drying off, use a gentle patting motion rather than a rubbing motion, which can irritate the skin.
Wear Layers
The AAD explains the importance of protecting your skin from winter air with appropriate clothing. Cover as much of your skin as possible, and don't forget gloves, as hands are prone to getting chapped. Sweating and getting too hot in the cold temperatures is also damaging to skin. Dress in layers so you can remove clothing when necessary. Also, change out of wet shoes and clothing as quickly as possible, as they can easily cause dry, itchy skin.
Increase Humidity
Winter skin problems largely stem from low humidity. Increasing the humidity in your home can help keep your skin healthy, according to the University of Iowa. It suggests either adding a humidifier to your central heating unit or using portable humidifiers, especially in the bedroom overnight.
Use Rich Moisturizers
Skin-moisturizing products are essential for skin care in the winter. The AAD stresses the particular importance of moisturizing within three minutes of bathing to lock moisture into the skin, and points out that ointments and creams are more effective than lotions. The University of Iowa concurs, also recommending moisturizing oils. Look for products made with lactic acid or urea.
Use Sun Protection
While you may only think of protecting your skin from the sun's UV radiation during in summer, it's just as important in the winter, especially when snow is on the ground reflecting the sun's rays. Liberally apply a moisturizing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to exposed skin about half an hour before going out.
Use Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Less hydrated skin means more flaccid skin. This makes fine lines, creases and wrinkles more prominent, states "Fitness" magazine. They recommend lotions made with alpha hydroxy acids to reduce this effect. Dr. David Bank explains that these products draw moisture to the surface of the skin, diminishing wrinkles.
Avoid Fragrances
Perfumes, colognes and scented products are likely to irritate skin, especially on those with sensitive skin, points out Hellman in "Fitness." Using fragranced products in the winter can work against your skin care efforts and exacerbate skin conditions. Opt for fragrance-free products in the winter.
Protect Lips
Don't neglect the skin on your lips in the winter. The lips are susceptible to becoming painfully chapped. Wearing a scarf or coat that covers the lips while outside is helpful. Frequent application of a lip balm is important, and don't forget to use one with an SPF of 30 of higher. The AAD recommends treating chapped lips with petroleum jelly at night.
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