Winter is the season of cold comfort and you can get more comfortable by following a proper skincare routine. Know how to capture moisture in this dry season.
Winter has arrived and it is that time of the year when one can feel a lot going on their skin. The dry, cold, and blustery conditions outside can make your skin raw and red regardless of your skin type. Similarly, when you are inside the room; the heat in the room can quickly absorb all the moisture in your skin. Even though there are many fun activities to do in winter such as camping and bonfires; it can also hamper your skin.
Luckily, there are a handful of effective skincare techniques that can help you have great and healthy skin on the coldest winter day. Even if you think that bathing in warm water will help you, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has already proved that it can reduce sebum and natural oil from your skin, making it drier and rougher. Following a skincare routine in a busy life is very tough, however, it is mandatory to live with proper physical and mental health.
Top 10 Skincare Tips for Winter
- Get a Humidifier to Retain Moisture
In winter, it gets quite hard to retain moisture, and as a result; your skin tends to get dry quite often. Expert dermatologists suggest that keeping a humidifier at your home or office can help to over this problem easily. It helps to restore moisture in the air which allows your skin to hydrate. Get a humidifier and keep the humidity levels between 30 and 50 % which is optimal, comfortable and you can keep it turned on at night while sleeping. In case you are unaware of the humidity level in the air inside the room, get a humidity meter.
- Keep the Temperature Cool and Comfortable
After spending some time in frosty outdoor air, it is very normal to be tempted to crank the heater up as soon as you get home. But a central heating system can make the air dry even faster. To prevent that, try to keep the temperature cool and comfortable it helps your skin to stay moist, without getting dry further. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) suggests keeping it around 68 to 75 degrees F.
- Cool Water for Showering and Hand-Washing
According to skincare experts, a 5- to 10-minute warm shower is better than taking a hot bath. Hot baths are surely comfortable in winter but also worsen your skin. So, make sure to pour only lukewarm water on your skin which is very relaxing and does not hamper your skin. Avoid using excessively hot water for washing hands and taking a bath as it can trigger eczema flare-ups.
- Gentle and Fragrance-Free Body Cleansers
The products used in the washroom also play a vital role in keeping your skin healthy and you should be aware of the components that you are using. Based on the skin type of different people the skincare products are categorized as, ‘Sensitive Skin’, ‘Combination Skin’, etc many others. For sensitive skin, it is important to use products that are ‘dye-free’ and ‘fragrance-free.’ You can also use natural and organic products that contain no synthetic material.
- Modify Your Skin-Care Regimen for Winter
Your skin can behave differently based on the season you are going through and for winter, it is better if you get into a modified kin-Care Regimen. While alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids are good for the skin, excessive use of them can cause great irritation. A simple method is to apply a moisturizer on top of your toner. Do not just moisturize your face but apply it allover over your body. It allows the skin to breathe and reduces the chances of acne.
- Moisturize Hands Frequently and After Washing
Hand-washing is mandatory when the threat is based on diseases like the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. Winter is the season of such diseases and to get over it; you should keep an eye on your hygiene and health. Most of the work is done by hand only and getting exposed can lead to germs as well as dryness. Moisturize Hands regularly after washing.
- Apply Sunscreen Regardless of the Sun
Winter days are bright and sunny and also offer plenty of exposure to UV rays. Ultraviolet rays are one of the strongest elements that spread mainly deadly diseases like skin cancer, sunburn, and premature skin. Though sunscreen is more hyped during the summers; you should apply it all over the year whenever you go out. It has a broad spectrum of SPF of 30 that helps to create a barrier between you and the sun.
- Wear Clothes that are Comfortable and Nonirritating
Winter is the season of sweaters, jackets, and big pullovers. But you should keep woolen and other rough clothing away from directly touching your skin. In friction with the skin, it can cause dry skin, irritation, and itchiness. Wear something light inside that is soft, breathable, and made of cotton. Now, you can put your heavy clothes back on.
- Eat Properly and Stay Hydrated Always
No matter what you do, there is no alternative to healthy eating and healthy living. Staying hydrated or drinking more water can also hydrate your skin and make it appear more fresh. Avoid eating processed food and deep-fried options. Instead cook healthy meals at home that are rich with the elements like vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
- Pat Yourself Dry and Stop Rubbing
Patting or blotting is recommended by most skincare experts as well as makeup artists as it helps to retain moisture on the skin. Rubbing with a cloth or tissue can cause friction and reduce moisture. Instead, pat yourself dry which is more effective.
Final Thoughts
Winter is a cold and rough season when your skin is the most vulnerable part of your body. Following the aforementioned tips can help you get healthy and glowing skin in the coldest days of winter without applying a lot of products. Stay healthy and stay beautiful!
