Winter Skin Care Tips

Did you know that the skin is the human body’s largest organ? As we head into the dryer, colder winter months, it’s time to take your skin care regimen more seriously.

Sick of dry, cracked winter skin? Follow these eight cold weather skin care tips:

Lock in Moisture

After you wash your face or bathe, be sure to apply moisturizer to seal in moisture and prevent irritated, dry skin. If you experience extremely dry skin each winter, then you may want to switch from a regular cream or lotion to a more intensive oil-based moisturizer.

Drink Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated by drinking several glasses of water per day. This can also help you to maintain healthier, moisturized winter skin.

Limit Face-Washing

To avoid drying out your skin, only wash your face in the morning and evening or after you have been exercising or sweating. If you need to refresh your skin throughout the day, try a splash of cold or lukewarm water and a non-abrasive wash cloth and pat dry.

Don’t Overdo Hot Showers and Baths

While it can be relaxing to enjoy a hot shower or bath in winter, excessively hot water can irritate your skin and dry it out further. Limit your exposure to very hot water temperatures and apply moisturizer after a hot bath or shower.

Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating can make the air in your home or office extremely dry. If you spend most of the day indoors, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and prevent dry, flaky skin.

Wash and Moisturize Hands

Washing your hands with warm water and soap is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. To avoid drying out the skin on your hands as you wash, use lukewarm and not scalding hot water and follow with moisturizer. Avoid using hand sanitizers, which contain alcohol and can lead to dry skin.

Apply Sunscreen

When outdoors, remember to apply an SPF 30 sunblock that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Even in winter, and especially around reflective snow or water, the sun can damage your skin.

Check Your Skin for Changes

Check your skin for changes and know the signs of a skin infection, which include redness, boils, rashes, and sometimes fever. If you have a cut or scrape and start to notice the symptoms of a skin infection, contact your physician for a consultation.

What are your biggest skin care challenges during the winter months? Please share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.