Winter brings beauty, joy, and a few skincare challenges. Many people experience excessively dry skin during the winter, as cold temperatures and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural moisture. This can cause discomfort and lead to other skin issues like eczema or psoriasis. So how can you take care of your skin during these chilly months? Here’s a look at some possible causes of excessive dryness and some tips for solving them.
Indoor Heating:
One of the primary causes of excessive dryness in winter is indoor heating. Central heating systems are designed to keep you warm, but they also suck out the moisture from indoor air, drying your skin.
To combat this, try using a humidifier in your home. This will add moisture back into the air, so your skin doesn’t become overly dried. More specifically, look for a cool mist humidifier, as hot mist can lead to water evaporation, which can cause skin problems.
If possible, also try to keep the temperature of your home at a comfortable level. The hotter it is, the drier the air becomes and the more likely you are to experience dry skin.
Cold Temperatures:
The cold temperatures outside also play a role in making our skin dryer than usual during winter. Protecting yourself from the elements is essential by covering up exposed areas with gloves, scarves, and hats when going outside for extended periods.
Also, make sure you choose breathable fabrics like cotton or wool that won’t irritate your skin too much when the temperature drops below freezing. For starters, you should also avoid synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, which can be harsh on the skin.
The type of soap you use during winter can additionally make a massive difference in how your skin feels. Many soaps contain harsh chemicals and detergents that strip the skin of its natural oils and cause further dryness. Instead, look for soap-free cleansers that are non-drying and made with natural ingredients.
Hot Showers / Baths:
Taking hot showers or baths may feel good in colder weather, but they can have a deleterious effect on your skin if you’re not careful. Hot water can strip away our body’s natural oils, which help keep it moisturized and hydrated throughout the day.
Try limiting yourself to lukewarm showers instead and use gentle cleansers that won’t be overly harsh on your skin while still washing away dirt and oil buildup throughout the day. For instance, using a mild, unscented body wash or oil-based cleanser can be a good option.
In addition, you should also make sure to use a moisturizer after every shower and bath. This will help your skin retain and seal in moisture so that it doesn’t dry out too quickly throughout the day.
Hard Water:
Another potential culprit for dehydrated skin in winter is hard water. This type of water has a high concentration of dissolved minerals, like calcium and magnesium. When washing with hard water, these minerals can strip the skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and irritated.
In order to combat this problem, having an efficient water softener installed is recommended. This will help remove the minerals from your water so that it’s gentle enough for you to use on your skin without drying it out.
Water softeners are also great for helping to reduce the amount of soap scum buildup in your bathroom, which can lead to skin irritation and other issues. Just make sure you’ll hire a professional to install the softener and follow all instructions for proper use and maintenance.
Lifestyle Habits:
Certain lifestyle habits like drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes can further dehydrate your body and leave your skin feeling extra dry during winter months as well. If you’re looking for ways to improve your overall health (as well as get glowing summer-like skin!), then consider cutting down on these habits or quitting altogether if possible!
For example, drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps flush out toxins and keeps your skin hydrated. You can also help keep your skin looking dewy by eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables with essential vitamins and minerals and lean proteins.
Overall, it’s important to remember that taking good care of your skin from the inside out is key to keeping it looking and feeling healthy during the winter months.
Skin Care Products:
Finally, what you put ON your body is just as important as what you put IN it, so make sure you’re using the right products for your individual needs! Choose products specifically formulated for sensitive or very dry skin types that include ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which help lock in moisture and keep it from evaporating over time.
You can also use a heavier, oil-based moisturizer or balm at night to help keep your skin hydrated while you sleep. And finally, don’t forget to use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you go outside — even in the winter months!
Excessively dry skin is a common issue during winter months due to a combination of factors such as cold temperatures, indoor heating systems, hot showers/baths, hard water, lifestyle habits, and even certain skincare products! Try changing some of these habits to take care of your skin this season. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy glowing healthy looking summer-like skin all year round!
