Although colder months mean fun times in the snow and the holidays are fast approaching, it can also wreak havoc on your skin, both on your face and body. That’s because freezing temperatures coupled with low humidity and robust winds can rob your skin of moisture, causing it to become dry, flaky, and itchy.
To help you maintain your healthy and glowing skin this winter, here are the top tips to consider protecting your body’s largest organ from the harsh cold conditions — and keep it healthy and hydrated.
Shave Smartly
No matter what season, getting rid of unwanted hair on your face, armpits, and other parts of the body is still a must. Although you may be accustomed to dry shaving whatever parts of your body, it can cause some problems during the winter months since your skin is already dry, exposing it to the risk of shaving cuts and nicks. So, make sure to use moisturizing foam when shaving. However, if you want to avoid any injuries this winter, it’s best to have a professional laser hair removal session or treatment at a salon or spa.
Moisturize Frequently
Maintain your healthy and glowing skin by regularly moisturizing, especially after taking a bath or shower. Avoid using lotions, as it’s often ineffective during the colder months. Replace these with cream and ointment. Since winter is the flu season, you’re likely going to be washing your hands more frequently, so make sure to apply hand cream each time you wash your hands.
Modify Your Facial Skin-Care Routine
During the colder months, make sure to replace your regular cleansers with cream ones and avoid applying toners and astringents. That’s because those items often contain alcohol that can further dry and damage your skin. Using cream-based moisturizers and other beauty products help your skin retain its natural oils, keeping it healthy and moisturized.
Avoid Hot Showers And Baths
Although it can be tempting to submerge yourself in a hot tub of water during the colder months, this can create cracks on the surface of your skin. That’s because hot water evaporates faster than warm water. When you don’t moisturize your skin after taking a hot shower or bath, the cracks on your skin let its nerves get exposed to air, resulting in the ‘winter’s itch,’ which can be extremely painful. Avoid taking hot showers and baths as much as possible, but moisturize immediately if you do take one.
Use Sunscreen — Even on ‘Gray’ Snowy Days
During bright snowy days, the snow can reflect the sun’s rays by up to 80% more, increasing your risk of exposure to sun rays and ultimately damaging your skin. Applying sunscreen also applies during darker or drearier days in winter since the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds, damaging your skin. Before going outside, use a moisturizing sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15 or higher to your body’s exposed areas.
Eat Right and Stay Hydrated
Sometimes, when your skin becomes extremely dry, it can lead to your skin ‘cracking,’ especially when exposed to the cold. You can remedy this by eating food or consuming supplements rich in Omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids like fish oil or flaxseed oil, as it helps your skin become more moisturized. Staying hydrated can also moisturize your skin naturally, so ensure to drink water regularly.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution in protecting your skin against the harsh cold, you can keep your skin healthy by following the tips mentioned — allowing you to look and feel your best throughout this winter.
