Winter is in full swing these days and that means facing the worst of the cold. This also means that winter dryness can’t get worse than this.
Its not just the chilly breeze that dries up your skin, indoor heating also tends to do the same. We also don’t drink enough water during the season, which ends up making it worse.
Sure, using a strong moisturizer does help. But as you know, beauty is skin deep, and a superficial approach to dryness won’t help much.
To combat dry skin this winter, try these things:
1. The Weather Inside
Indoor heating can rob your skin of much-needed moisture. Besides that, the heat that comes from radiators and heaters is dry heat, the kind that adds to the dryness. Even for those of us who use wood, coal and organic heat sources, its not any better. This is because combustion requires oxygen and that’s not doing your skin any favors either.
Now, no one’s asking you to ditch indoor heating. But consider investing in a humidifier. It can help your skin retain its moisture and help you stay warm.
2. You Are What You Eat
Everyone has been hearing this all their life, that eating healthier makes a world of a difference. While most of us still having a hard time sticking to that advice, the good news is that winter changes the equation when it comes to your dietary habits. Foods that are high in lipid (fat) content, are actually great for your skin.
However, try not to overdo it with caffeine, and coffee. Plus it doesn’t hurt to drink tons of water (we mean just enough of it).
Lipid dry fruits, particularly nuts, are high in vitamins A and E. These are the two best things that can happen to your skin. Citrus fruits, which are high in vitamin C, are great to combat dryness since they contain water.
3. Scrap off OId Layers
Layers of dead skin on top prevent the moisture from sinking in. So exfoliate not just to scrap off the dead layers but also to increase circulation in the skin that will lead to healthier glowing skin.
After exfoliating, moisturizers and hydrating serums can really sink in.
4. Anti-Oxidant Serums
With exfoliating, another range of products that you need to combat dryness is anti-oxidant serums. These shouldn’t be used alone as they can dry out the skin, but with a good hydrating sunscreen, you’re all set.
“As long as it’s alcohol-free, an antioxidant serum is perfect for year-round usage.”
Since its winter and you’ll be soaking in the sun, anti-oxidant serums are key to combating all the harmful effects from the sun.
5. Bulk Up
Winter is not a time for light weight formulas. Even if you have oily skin that’s probably because your skin is so dry that its producing excess oil to compensate.
The solution? Switch to more hydrating and thicker formulas that have creamides. Cream formulas last longer. Or you can try organic oils like argon oil, olive oil and even cocoa butter or shea butter (it even has SPF).
6. Avoid Harsh Cleansing
Cleansing can be bad for your skin in the winter as your skin needs the natural oils. The more you cleanse, the more you’re washing away the natural oils of your skin. That goes for both for the body and face.
In the winter you may want to stay in the steaming shower all day long but do note that warm water dries your skin out.
via Vogue
