Winter can wreak havoc on your skin — making it dry, itchy, and irritated. And it can feel like there’s no escape: Cold, blustery conditions outside can leave your skin feeling raw, while indoor heat zaps moisture from the air and from your skin.
Even the things that make winter wonderful, such as sitting by a roaring fire, can dry your skin and though taking a hot shower might seem like a good way to warm up, hot water dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils.
But there are many simple ways to combat the causes of dry winter skin and help keep your skin feeling moist and supple all season long, including some easy changes to your everyday routine. For example, after taking a not-quite-so-hot shower, "blot skin dry and apply a thick moisturizer within a few minutes after bathing to seal the water into the skin.
Here are some things to look out for
Ingredients such as chamomile and oatmeal in the cleanser will benefit your skin. Look for ones without fragrance and additives.
Moisturizers made up of apple cider vinegar, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, argan oil are perfect for combating winter dryness. Good moisturizer will keep the wrinkles and fine lines away.
Exfoliators: Many people make the mistake of exfoliating too much to remove dead skin but that is a not a good idea. Don’t exfoliate for more than once or twice a week. Gentle exfoliators containing neem, tulsi, strawberry, papaya, and light AHA or BHAs make a good choice.
Facial oils: Cold pressed oils like jojoba oil and sandalwood are good for dry skin. Few drops of facial oil post toner will bring a new life to the dull skin.
Here are the few tips
Use the right skin products
Using lotion on the skin is a necessity but the trick is to select the right one. An oily skin with oily lotion will only clog up the pores and lead to breakouts. Choose your products wisely according to your skin type. Your skin care products should be able to retain the natural oils and moisture. Also stay away from peels, masks and any alcohol based products
Drink lots of water
When it’s cold outside we often forget to drink enough water throughout the day, but this is just when low humidity is most likely to strip our poor skin of its moisture. Remember to sip slowly through the day rather than gulp and to use a reusable bottle. Indulging in warming winter teas such as natural ginger and lemon is a wonderful way to keep hydrated in winter - you will feel healthy, hydrated and cozy at the same time. It’s a win-win situation!
Wash Your Face With Lukewarm Water
Hot showers in winters may relax your muscles, but nothing can worse for your skin condition than hot water. It makes your skin dry and flaky. The effects are even more adverse if you have a sensitive skin. We cannot switch to cold water bath, of course, but we can definitely save our facial skin by washing it with lukewarm water. This way you wouldn't feel cold and also wouldn't let natural oils slough off easily from your face.
Choose a cleanser carefully
Many high street cleansers actually contain harsh chemicals which can be damaging rather than nourishing. Ingredients such as alcohol and any added fragrances won’t do any favors for dry, cracked skin, as they strip away natural oils.
Keep those showers short and sweet
It’s tempting to reach for that dial and turn up the heat and have a long, hot shower or a bath when it’s cold outside. However, hot showers and long baths are a big no-no. Not only will excessively hot water dehydrate you, but it will also strip away those necessary oils from your body. If you come out of the shower and your skin is irritatingly red and itchy, it’s a sign that you’ve overdone it. All is not lost though. We’ve got you covered in the next step.
Use a natural moisturizer and apply immediately after washing
Choose your facial moisturizer and body lotion carefully. We recommend oil based products rather than water based to keep important hydrating oils in your skin. Apply moisturizer or lotion immediately after washing to lock in as much moisture as possible, and don’t forget to include your hands and your feet, the most hardworking parts of your body.
Apply Sunscreen — Even on Gray Winter Days
On bright winter days, snow reflects the sun’s rays— increasing your risk of exposure. That means whether you’re out on the slopes, playing in the snow, or just walking through a parking lot on an errand run, it’s just as important to be applying sunscreen in the harsh winter weather as it is in the summer.
And don’t be fooled by darker, dreary days in winter, either. The sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage.
Before you go outside, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body.
Be consistent with skin routine
Religiously follow the routine of cleansing, toning, using serum, moisturize and sunscreen. Read the ingredient list and choose hydrating products that are not heavy on skin and easily absorbed. This way your skin will stay hydrated, smooth, radiant and toned all through the day. If you have any specific skin concerns then talk to your dermatologist about it. Products that have ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin give good results.
These handy tips may help you get through the harsh effects of winter and give you a glowing and happy skin. Pick your cues and get the skin you always dreamt of.