To Your Health!

Faalik Zahra

How to Soothe Dry Skin During the Winter

by Faalik Zahra

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With winter comes shorter days, colder temperatures, and drier skin. Many of these factors can cause difficulties in people’s lives. There may not be a solution to all these problems, but there are ways to soothe dry skin during the winter.

Cold winds and decreased moisture in the air may lead to dry skin. Internal heating systems often further cause this by stripping the air of moisture. Dry skin appears rough and flaky. These patches can be itchy, but they don’t have to be. Depending on the intensity of the dry skin, an individual may feel their skin cracking, peeling, and bleeding. Individuals with pre-existing skin conditions may see them worsen during these colder months.

Ultimately this makes winter a difficult time for many individuals. However, there are small practices that you can incorporate into your routine to assist in soothing your dry skin.

Here are five specific steps that you can take:

1. Bundle up

Wear gloves, scarves, and hats with your jacket when going outside. These layers will keep you warm but also limit your skin's contact with the cold air.

2. Update your skincare

Your summer skincare may need to be altered during the colder months to combat the harsh weather. Replacing your lotion with a thicker cream or oil may assist in combatting dry skin.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, dermatologists recommend looking for the following ingredients in your lotion, “jojoba oil, dimethicone, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, petrolatum, and/or shea butter.” These ingredients will better help moisturize your skin.

Dermatologists also recommend checking your skincare and eliminating products containing the following ingredients: “alcohol(except for hand sanitizer), alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). fragrance(including deodrant soaps), and retinoids.” These ingredients may remove the natural moisture in your skin, making it drier.

3. Use a Humidifier

Humidifiers are a great way to add moisture to the air. Heating can lead the air to become dry, which only worsens your dry skin.

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4. Avoid long, hot showers

Hot showers can be relaxing, especially in colder weather, but extensive periods in a hot shower also dries out your skin. Instead, opt for 10-15 minutes using warm weather.

5. Hydrate

Drinking water is always essential. It is easy to remain hydrated during long hot Summer days, but it is equally important to continue those hydrating habits in the water.

Incorporating these steps into your winter routine will alleviate the dry skin that comes with the colder months. It is important to stay proactive to limit the irritations you may experience

Consult your dermatologist if your dry skin persists or worsens despite these changes.

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