The coldest months can take a toll on your body. Not only do you feel less motivated due to the colder and shorter days, but your skin can start to feel dry and itchy. This makes the season uncomfortable, leaving you feeling helpless and like you don’t want to leave the house.
Although it may seem like you’ve tried everything, and there are no more solutions left, there is something you can do to combat the cold and make the colder seasons more comfortable for you and your body. With these 4 tips for keeping your skin moisturised in the colder months, you can keep your skin happy and healthy and take control of your body.
1. Switch to a richer moisturiser
Lightweight lotions that work well in summer may not provide much hydration in the winter after the temperature drop causing the air to become drier. Colder months call for thicker creams or face primers, which can help to lock in moisture and build up strength in your skin barrier. When you are looking for winter creams, you should look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and shea butter as these ingredients draw in moisture and seal it in. It’s best to apply moisturiser immediately after washing your face or coming out of the shower, to trap in moisture and stop it from escaping.
2. Avoid hot, lengthy showers
Although hot and steamy showers may feel comforting on a cold day, they can cause harm to your skin, drying it out and making it tender and itchy. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, increasing dryness and irritation, meaning that you have to replenish extra moisture. Instead, opt for lukewarm showers and try to keep them under 10 minutes where possible to reduce contact with warm weather. In addition, when you are drying yourself off, it’s best to pat dry rather than rub to further prevent irritation, as well as washing towels frequently to remove any dead skin from them.
3. Use a dehumidifier indoors
Indoor heating systems used in the winter can significantly reduce humidity levels, which can further dry out skin. Investing in a good dehumidifier in your home, especially in the bedroom at night, can replenish the humidity in the air and help to stop your skin from drying out while you’re sleeping. You should aim for around 30%- 50% humidity for optimum comfort, not just for your skin, but for your eyes and lips, which can get dry and irritated in the winter also.
4. Don’t forget sunscreen
Even in winter, your skin needs protection from the sun. UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow, contributing to dryness and premature ageing. Ensure that every morning you apply suncream to your face and neck, as well as using lip balm or lip gloss with spf to protect your lips.
Final thoughts
By making these simple changes, you can combat winter dryness and maintain smooth and nourished skin all year long.
