Skin care during winter An expert opinion by Dr. Sujaya S N

Dry skin during winter is a widespread issue. The chilly weather and gusty winds can make your skin dry, cracked, and occasionally painful. Dry skin affects individuals of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. However, you don't have to endure this discomfort. Rather than concealing your winter dry skin during holiday celebrations, consider managing it with the 5 tips provided below.

1. Limit Shower and Bath Time

While it might feel tempting to increase the water temperature during showers or baths in winter to combat a chilly bathroom, prolonged exposure to hot water can actually exacerbate winter dry skin. Rather than cranking up the hot water, consider closing the bathroom door at night to retain the warmth from the heater in the room, keeping the water temperature warm instead of hot. Additionally, keeping your shower or bath to 5-10 minutes can help reduce the impact of winter dry skin.

2. Be Mindful of What You’re Putting on Your Skin

It's tempting to purchase the newest fragrant body lotions and soaps (we're looking at you, pumpkin scents), but do these pleasant-smelling products effectively manage dry skin? Typically, they don't. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends opting for gentle, fragrance-free lotions and soaps and advises limiting the amount of soap you use. Use just enough to cleanse your skin of dirt and germs.

3. Apply Moisturizer Throughout the Day

A timeless suggestion for combating winter dry skin is to apply moisturizer right after showering. Additionally, it's beneficial to use moisturizer during the day, especially after handwashing. The most effective moisturizers are fragrance-free and contain oils like jojoba or olive oil.

4. Wear a Weather-Appropriate Wardrobe

Many people have braved the cold and the wind with light clothing to simply run into a building from their parked car. Forgo being brave and bundle up instead. Prevent exposure to the weather by wearing hats, gloves, and scarves when spending any time outdoors, especially if you will be outside for a prolonged period of time. This also includes wearing lip balm to not only block sun exposure but wind exposure as well. Preventing winter dry skin is much easier than healing winter dry skin.

5. Keep Your Room Cozy

Direct exposure to heat sources like an open flame or sitting in front of a heater will dehydrate your skin more. Keep warm by sipping hot beverages on the couch under some soft blankets instead. Another way to keep your room cozy and your skin feeling soft and smooth is by running a humidifier. Humidifiers are a cost-effective way to take care of your skin throughout the year, not just the holiday season.

Are you dealing with winter dry skin? Contact us today to make an appointment at the Surgiderma Skin and Plastic Surgery Clinic, or call 9535377896.