The falling temperatures, wind, dry heat indoors, and hot showers associated with winter can take a toll on your skin and hair, causing them to appear dull and lifeless. Here are some tips to combat these common winter problems.
To keep your hair moisturized and healthy-looking, use a conditioner with silicone to protect the outer cuticle layer and lock in moisture. Conditioners containing quaternary ammonium compounds, or quats, can help keep your hair soft and silky and prevent flyaways caused by static electricity.
Itchy and flaky scalp can be a result of simple dry skin or dandruff, which is caused by a yeast-like fungus. Try a hydrating shampoo and conditioner for a week. If they don’t help, try an intensive-care product. If that still doesn’t relieve the dryness and flakes, you have dandruff and need a medicated shampoo containing pyrithione to kill the fungus.
During the winter, dehydrated skin cells are replaced less often and build up. Circulation also slows down. These factors can combine to product a dull complexion. You can relieve this by drinking extra water and eating foods full of omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and nuts. You should also consider taking omega-3 supplements to give your skin an extra boost. Wash your face every day with a milky or creamy cleanser, and then apply a cream or balm, instead of a lotion, to retain more moisture. Choose a brand that contains antioxidants, humectants, and emollients.
Since your arms and legs have fewer oil glands, they tend to dry out more in the winter. Replenish moisture in your skin by taking a warm bath with water and two cups of skim milk. Soak for 15 minutes, pat your skin dry, and then apply a milk-and-honey cream for additional moisture.
Following these daily tips can help you prevent many of the common hair and skin issues that come up during the winter and keep you looking your best.