Let’s face it; for those of us who live in the colder areas, wintertime is brutal on our skin. We have to find ways to minimize the effects of the extreme cold. Dryness and itchiness become constant companions during this season.
Knowing how your skin is, we need to know how to care for the skin in this weather. As Dr. Brittany Craiglow, associate adjunct professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine says, “Your skin’s main job is to keep the inside world in and the outside world out.” (NY Times, “How to Take Care of Your Skin in the Fall and Winter,” Sept. 25, 2023.) Your skin protects you from germs and bad bacteria entering your body, so it needs to be well-cared for.
As the temps drop, so does the moisture in the air. Because of that decrease in moisture, your skin needs hydration. Otherwise, you run the risk of dryness and itchiness throughout the season. Those with eczema and psoriasis have to deal with the symptoms on a regular basis; when winter comes, it aggravates the skin even more.
It's best to change up your skincare regimen during the winter months. It can help keep your skin healthy and reduce some of the dryness and changes your skin goes through during this time. Taking tepid showers helps to keep some of the natural oil in your skin. Taking very hot showers can strip your skin of the natural oils your skin needs to stay moisturized.
Keeping on the moisturization track, make sure the products you use on your skin keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. Using natural and organic skincare products are even more beneficial to your skin’s health. D’Scent Essentials offers many different body butters that are great for your skin (www.dscente.com). Using thicker creams and lotions can also create a solid barrier between the skin and the elements, but the preference is between you and your skin.
Whatever you use, make sure you use it regularly. Keeping your skin hydrated and healthy requires regular use of products that help your skin. Also, if you have a humidifier, make sure you use it often, especially during the winter months. Keep that moisture in the air!
Also, eating healthy doesn’t hurt, along with drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. Anything you can do to help your skin is beneficial during this time of year. Being mindful of the weather and taking steps to minimize the detrimental winter effects on your skin helps to keep your skin supple, healthy, and happy.