Cold weather brings with it certain skin care problems, including dry, itchy skin, cracked hands, and flaky lips. When the weather outside gets chilly, the air inside has a lot less moisture which can dry out your skin. Indoor heating along with harsh winds will also dry out your skin.
As the weather continues to shift and temperatures begin to plunge, it's time to start rethinking your skin care routine. Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, while low humidity and central heating make dry air even drier. Here are some skin mistakes to avoid in winter.
Using hot water for a shower
We agree there's no greater pleasure than sinking your body in a tub of warm water and staying put for as long as you can in winter. But, remember that the longer you expose your skin to hot water, the faster it will get depleted of natural oils.
The wrong cleanser
Since drying soap lather is even worse for your lipid barrier than hot water, avoid soap-based facial cleansers. "In the winter, when there isn't as much moisture in the air, absolutely everyone needs a nonfoaming cleanser," says Miami dermatologist Leslie Baumann.
Skipping the sunscreen
You might be inside more, and you might not see the sun as much as you did during the summer. However, you can still get sun damage in the winter. Sunscreen is something you have to wear year-round. You just have to.
Not using oils
One of the easiest ways to combat winter dryness is to add oils into your regimen. Whether you are applying oils directly to your face and body or adding a few drops into your lotion, oils will help your skin hydrate and retain that moisture.
Forgetting about your extremities
Your hands, feet, ears, and lips are the first things that will get super dry when it's cold. Don't wait until it's too late! Start stocking up on that moisture now. Sleep with lotion and socks on. Always use a hand cream after you wash your hands. Apply moisturizer to your ears, and make sure you lay on some heavy lip balm to prevent chapping.
Not using a humidifier
When it's super cold, humidity basically doesn't exist. That lack of moisture in the air can dry out your skin and hair, leaving you all gross and flaky. You might also notice your nose and throat drying out as well so do yourself a favor and stick a humidifier in your bedroom at night.
Ignoring your eyes
Allergy-prone or not, we are all more at risk to suffer from dry, itchy eyes in the winter. After all, they are the most sensitive part of our face and unless you are committed to wearing a ski mask get very little protection from chilly winter air.
