When you woke up this morning and noticed it was 37 degrees you immediately thought of winter, didn’t you? Yes, the chill of late November and December is a lot closer than we all like to think and now is the time to start preparing your skin for the dry air, snow and freezing temperatures. In order to combat the changing climate and how it affects your skin consider some helpful tips that will reduce dry and cracked skin.
Creams over Lotions: The number one cause of dry skin is dehydration. Winter will quickly dry out your skin and if you are using lotions now is a good time to switch to creams with better moisturizing properties. Creams are usually more moisturizing and provide a better barrier to reduce water loss in the skin. Creams may feel a little heavier on the skin but you will be thankful when you notice your skin looking healthy and natural instead of cracked and worn.
Cut down on Hot Showers: Yes, it’s very tempting to stay in a steaming hot shower when the weather is so frigid. However, when you spend too long in the shower you dry out your skin and this will lead to dehydration when you face the cold air outside. You don’t have to take cold Navy showers but it’s best to limit your time in the steam to five minutes. Remember to pat your skin dry after a shower, don’t rub rigorously, and be sure to use moisturizing creams on your skin to relive dry areas. You may also want to use body wash gels instead of soap for extra skin enrichment.
Take it Slow – The winter season is full of holidays and parties and the more you drink, eat and stay out late the more damage you do to your skin. Stress has a bad effect on skin, from causing acne when we are teens to cold sores as adults and the more you load up your social calendar the more stressful the holidays will be. Take it slow and don’t feel the need to be the life of every party. When you are out on the town, limit your alcohol intake and moderate the amount of rich foods you eat.