10 Tips for Healthy Winter Skin
Winter might be your favorite season, but your skin and hair aren’t fans of all that dryness. Learn how to protect them from the harsh elements this winter. Here are some other tips to keep in mind when it comes to effective winter skincare
1. Use DIY masks
Homemade hydrating masks can provide needed moisture in the winter months. Use natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive and jojoba oils, almond oil, bananas, and aloe. Mix what you like together to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for lasting hydration.
2. Avoid hot showers and baths
It is very tempting to take hot showers and baths during winter but it’s best to avoid them if you want to take good care of your skin. Excessively hot water for bathing is bad for your skin since it washes away the much-needed natural oils that keep your skin healthy and moisturized. Take note that if the water causes your skin to turn red, it’s too hot.
When cleaning yourself, just use lukewarm water (26° C to 32° C) and spend only 5- to 10-minutes showering or bathing to maintain your skin’s natural moisture level.
3. Choose skincare products wisely
Products that may have worked for you during the summer may not be good for your skin during winter. This is why you need to change up your skincare routine accordingly.
Use mild products that contain ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid to help in maintaining the moisture barrier of your skin. On the other hand, sparingly use or totally avoid harsh masks, astringent lotions, and any other skincare product that contain alcohol as these can further dry out your skin.
4. Wear comfortable clothing
A lot of cold-weather clothing have rough and itchy fabrics which have the tendency to aggravate dry winter skin. It is best to wear comfortable clothes made from soft, non-irritating materials like cotton or silk first before layering on your heavier and warmer sweaters. This way, the rough fabric won’t rub directly against your skin.
5. Stay hydrated
Because of the dry winter air, we must take extra effort in keeping it hydrated from the inside, out. Although you might not feel as thirsty during winters, still make sure that you drink at least 8 cups of water daily to stay hydrated.
Eating foods that have high water content also helps to hydrate your skin. Add fruits to your diet. You can also eat more watery vegetable like tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers and celery.
