Winter is here, and with it, the cold and dry conditions that wreck havoc on our skin. If you notice itchy, dry skin during the day, it could be a sign that the season is taking its toll.
When you have dry skin, here are a few simple steps to fix it.
- Drink enough water.
- Invest in a humidifier.
- Stay away from air vents.
- Use gentle cleansers.
- Use a more hydrating cream or lotion.
- Moisturize regularly.
Drink enough water. This is the most effective way to hydrate from the inside. When your body is well hydrated, it is able to provide moisture to the skin. It can be easy to forget to drink more water, so check in with yourself every hour: are you thirsty? Take a sip!
Invest in a humidifier. Humidifiers can be stand-alone devices that humidify a single room, or components that are integrated into your HVAC system. Either way, monitor your humidifier’s performance during winter to make sure it has enough water.
Stay away from air vents. During the Canadian winters, our heat vents are constantly blasting out warm air. This is great for keeping our homes warm – but this constant warm air also dries out our skin! It can be hard to stay away from central air vents, but it helps to be aware of the situation.
Use gentle cleansers. Winter is no time to be rough on your skin. Harsh cleaners can strip moisture away, and make it hard for your skin to recover. Make sure you are choosing a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate your skin or dry it out.
Use a more hydrating cream or lotion. Skin care regimens need to be adjusted for winter conditions. You will find that a richer, more hydrating cream will help your skin recover faster. Body butters can provide an excellent barrier to prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated.
Moisturize regularly. Keep your favourite moisturizer handy for a quick application through the day, including after washing hands. Moisturizing your face regularly can reduce the risk of developing extreme dryness or oiliness, and help balance your complexion throughout the day. Pay particular attention to hands, feet, and any areas that tend to get dry, like elbows.