How to Make Our Skin Less Dry in Winter?

Tips for Dry Skin in Winter

The winter season is the most challenging especially to those who have dry skin. Due to low humidity levels and chilly temperatures during winter, it often leads to irritation and discomfort. In this article, we will share with you several steps you can take to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised during the winter season. Here are some tips.

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking a lot of water can boost skin hydration, especially during the winter season. People often turn their indoor heating up high, which reduces humidity that affects the skin’s moisture. Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, it helps combat dryness caused by cold weather.

2. Moisturise Regularly

Another way to combat dry skin during winter is to moisturise regularly. Products that contain ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, create a protective barrier for your skin and help to lock in moisture. Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing or washing your face as it helps lock in moisture. Moisturise your face and body at least twice a day.

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3. Adjust your Skincare Routine

Your skin requires different treatment during winter to prevent further dryness. Cut back on exfoliating scrubs, face masks, and steam treatments to reduce damage to the skin barrier. Use mild and fragrance-free cleansers, use cleansers with hydrating ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These ingredients won’t strip away the skin’s natural oils and help lock in moisture. Wash your face with lukewarm water and limit shower time to 10-15 minutes.

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4. Use Humidifiers

Indoor heating can contribute to dry skin as it reduces humidity levels in our homes. Humidifiers add moisture back into the air which helps lessen dryness and itchiness. Best to put a humidifier in your bedroom or throughout your home to maintain the humidity level.

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5. Avoid Harsh Elements

Protect our skin when going outside. Wear appropriate winter clothes. Add gloves, hats, scarves to protect your skin from the cold weather which contributes to dryness and irritation.

Avoid harsh skincare products. Choose products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance free, with no alcohol content and harsh chemicals as they can strip away natural oil produced by the skin.

Avoid harsh clothing or irritating fabric. Some fabrics can irritate the skin. Breathable materials like cotton or silk are great options and wear a layer of clothing underneath if necessary.

Wear sunscreen. UV rays can still harm your skin during winter, so it is best to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin.

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6. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that help nourish and protect the skin from within. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and seeds in your meals for your overall skin health.

Signs you have Dry Skin during Winter

Dryness can damage the skin barrier which lead to:

rough patches

flaking

cracks

redness, in lighter skin tones

itching

stinging

a raw, sensitive-to-the-touch feeling

Some people may experience these symptoms at the same time. Following the tips outlined in this article should help alleviate the problem.

Summary

Cold weather can be damaging to the skin but with a consistent skincare routine and some proactive measures, you can maintain healthy and moisturised skin throughout the season. However, if your dry skin persists or becomes severe, it's best to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dry Skin: Lifestyle and Home Remedies. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353891
2. Cleveland Clinic. (2022). 7 Winter Skin Care Tips for Dry Skin. Retrieved from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/winter-skin-care-tips-for-dry-skin/
3. Medica News Today. (n.d). Symptoms of Winter Dry Skin. Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/winter-dry-skin#symptoms