Winter Skin Care

Dry winter air can make your skin dry, itchy, and irritated. However there are number of simple ways to nourish your skin in winter.

Top 10 Tips for Winter Skin Care

• Use a humidifier. By using a humidifier in your home or office you can add moisture to dry winter air and help keep your skin to be hydrated.

• Lower the thermostat. When it’s very chill outside, crank up the heat! Set the thermostat at a cool, yet comfortable setting — 68°F to 72°F.

• Do not use hot showers. Although it may be tempting to warm up with a long, steamy shower, hot water dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils. Instead, take a 5- to 10-minute lukewarm shower (or bath). You should also avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands — if the water causes your skin to turn red, it’s too hot.

• Choose cleanser wisely. The wrong soap can worsen itchy, dry skin. For instance, steer clear of regular bar soaps, since they tend to contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. Instead, start washing with a fragrance-free, moisturizing cleanser or gel. You can also prevent winter skin problems by using less soap, so limit your lathering to necessary areas, such as your hands, armpits, genitals, and feet.

• Modify your facial skin care regimen for the season. During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and apply toners and astringents sparingly, if at all. Many astringents contain alcohol, which can further dry your skin. Look for products that contain little or no alcohol — unless your skin is excessively oily. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face.

• Moisturize your skin daily. As soon as you come out after washing up use a good quality moisturizer on complete area of body which is uncovered. Use hand cream after washing hands every time. This will help to maintain moisture in hands and will remove roughness from hands.

• Apply sunscreen when you go out— even in winter. It is still important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays on cold, dreary days in winter. Before going outside, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body.

• Wear suitable clothes. Some cold-weather fabrics can aggravate dry winter skin. "Keep wool and rough clothing from directly touching your skin. Protect your hands from cold winter air with gloves or mittens. Remember to choose a pair that won’t irritate your skin. If you prefer wool gloves, put cotton or silk glove liners on first.

• Eat seasonal vegetables and fruits that have rich source of vitamins. Vitamins are really important for your skin.

• Wet clothes can irritate the skin, so Change out wet clothes quickly. Remove the wet clothes, shoes, gloves etc. as soon as possible.