Winter is a season that is prone to cause much damage to our precious skin. While going outdoors makes it common for our skin to redden and become rough due to the harsh, cold and dry air, the cozy indoor heat can also cause major dryness and steal much of the needed moisture away from our skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), even just enjoying the romance winter by sitting next to a blazing wood fire or showering in extra warm water can be detrimental to our skin.
In order to maintain our skin in its best and healthiest state, it is essential to follow the best steps to avoid damage and protect ourselves from harsh external conditions. The following are some of the TOP 10 tips provided by ‘Everyday Health’ to help maintain our skin's natural moisture and protect it from yet another cold winter.
1. Maximizing Indoor Moisture Levels with a Humidifier
As we know, the outdoor winter air is known to be dry and cold. Using a humidifier at home or work office space can help reduce dryness from your skin and keep your skin moist. Your goal should always be to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% by turning on your humidifier throughout the house or in the space where you spend the most time.
2. Maintain Proper Indoor Temperatures
Though everyone’s instinct may be to blast the heater on high as soon as they return home from the outdoors, higher indoor temperatures can cause the air within our homes to become drier than usual. Setting a slightly cooler and more comfortable temperature is preferable to keep our skins from over-drying out. The American Society of Osteopathic Dermatology (AOCD) typically recommends temperatures to be set at around 20°C to 24°C (68°F ~ 75°F).
3. Avoid Showering or Washing Hands in Excessively Warm Water
Using warm water might seem desirable, especially after a long day out in the cold; however, the benefits of taking an overly hot shower are low. According to AAD, taking a warm shower or bath for only five to ten minutes is less likely to worsen dry skin. If your skin reddens after you’ve entered the shower, it’s a little too hot. Even when it comes to washing your hands, it’s a better idea to use lukewarm water rather than hot water.
4. Use a Mild No-Scent Cleanser
It is better to use mild body wash cleansers rather than solid soap bars for sensitive and overly dry skin. Products specialized for those with sensitive skin especially are the best option. Using products that do not contain strong scents and dark colors is also recommended. In addition, products that include ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramide, oil, and shea butter are also recommended.
5. Have a Seasonal Skin Routine
Within the many shifts our bodies go through during every season, our skin can be considered one of the most sensitive. Due to the excessive dryness and cold of the air, it is preferable to change your skincare routine to using products such as moisturizers containing sealants that prevent moisture evaporation, such as squalene and shea butter. Also, products containing moisturizers such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin thick tube creams instead of pump lotions.
6. Using Plenty of Hand Cream After Hand Washing
Because of the many diseases that are prone to follow the cold of winter, washing your hands may double compared to what we might do during other seasons. However, while essential to protect ourselves, it can cause constant dryness to our hands. Make sure to always apply moisturizing hand cream after washing your hands.
7. Apply Sunscreen Whether Rain or Shine
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the sunlight reflected from accumulated snow can increase ultraviolet exposure. Whether you go to a ski resort, play in the snow, or walk outside, it is essential to apply sunscreen even in the chilly winter. Even on dark and cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays can still penetrate clouds and harm the skin.
8. Wear Comfortable, Non-Irritable Clothing
Some fabrics can worsen dry winter skin. Avoid direct skin contact with materials such as wool or other rough textures. These materials can irritate and cause dry skin to become itchy. Instead, wear thin clothes made of soft, breathable material such as cotton or silk, with a thick warm sweater on top.
9. Keep a Healthy Diet
Maintaining good health always makes our bodies feel satisfied and happy. To keep the best moisture for our bodies, drinking much water and maintaining a healthy diet are some of the top factors to consider and follow for our benefit. In a small study, those who drank two liters of water more than usual could see positive outcomes in their skin moisture. It is also best to avoid processed foods and sugars and eat whole foods rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
10. Avoid Fully Drying Body After Shower
To help maintain better moisture within your skin, rather than thoroughly drying yourself with a towel, it is said that lightly patting excess water and wetness is better to help maintain your skin’s moisture. Immediately applying moisturizing cream is also recommended.
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