Feb 10, 2012

Fighting Winter Dry Skin



Winter is often a time for more noticeably dry skin. It is a problem that becomes worse due to low humidity in cold weather. It can also bring about dry “patches” in certain areas such as feet and elbows. Here are some tips to fight winter dryness:

• Apply a generous amount of skin moisturizer to keep the water from leaving your skin. A thick moisturizer should work quite well, and you can also try some petroleum jelly. It is best to apply a moisturizer on your skin, immediately after a shower, while your skin is still moist.


• Limit the amount of time you spend while bathing and reduce the temperature of your bath water, as these factors remove the natural oil from your skin. Make sure that you do not spend more than 15 minutes taking a shower and use lukewarm to warm water.  


• Use a bath or shower gel that contains added moisturizer, instead of using a soap that is harsh and drying. 





• Avoid rubbing your skin vigorously after a shower, as it damages your skin and causes it to dry out. Pat your skin dry gently, with a soft towel and allow some of the moisture to remain on your skin while you moisturize to allow for better penetration into the skin.

• Use a humidifier if you spend a lot of time indoors or in an artificially heated or cooled environment. Be sure to keep the humidifier clean and free of bacteria and fungi. 

• Fabrics like cotton and silk allow your skin to breathe and therefore are good for the health of your skin. Certain fabrics like wool and polyester can irritate your skin, leading to dryness, itching, and so on.
It is also important to drink plenty of fluids. However alcohol and caffeinated beverages should be avoided due to their dehydrating properties.

You can also keep skin hydrated by increasing your consumption of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, zinc, sulfur, and vitamin C. With a daily regimen of these tips you should notice healthier looking skin and a happier you.



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