How to Treat and Prevent Dry Winter Skin
If you're like most people, your skin always feels drier during the colder months. Even here in Southern California we feel the effects of the dry air as the chill comes in at night and our heaters turn on. But it's possible to keep your skin hydrated even in winter with a few simple steps. We've compiled a list of the most effective ways to keep skin soft, glowing, and moisturized all winter long.
HYDRATE THE SKIN FROM THE OUTSIDE IN...
1. Prepare Your Atmosphere
For most of us, much of our time in winter is spent indoors. Often that means with the heater on, which can cause the air to get very dry. To combat this you can try one or more of the following to bring some moisture into your atmosphere:
- Use a humidifier. Experts recommend setting it from anywhere between 30-60% humidity.
- Diffuse essential oils with a stone diffuser.
- In lieu of a humidifier, you can set out a large bowl of water (or multiple bowls) in your bedroom overnight, that will slowly evaporate into the air and act as a humidifier when the heater is turned on.
- Change your air filters regularly. This won't combat dryness directly, but it is necessary for air cleanliness when the heater (or air conditioner) is getting frequent usage.
2. Give Your Skin Moisture Directly (And Don't Strip It Away)
After you've prepped your space, prep your skin directly with these simple tips:
- Use lukewarm water rather than hot water in the shower, which can strip away the skin's natural oils.
- Limit the amount of time spent in the water, as staying too long can be stripping as well.
- Use only gentle cleansers on your face, hands, and body that are free of harsh and/or harmful chemicals. It's important to wash your hands even more frequently during winter flu season, so we recommend using a gentle, non-drying hand soap, ideally one that is non-toxic and sulfate-free. Our nutrient-rich hand wash made with watermelon seed oil can be used again and again without drying the skin, and can also be used as a moisturizing body wash, bubble bath, and even face wash.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing and after washing your hands. This helps seal in moisture while your skin is still damp. Use a moisturizer that is free of parabens and synthetic fragrance, like our Rich Hydrating Cream - which provides deep hydration that lasts all day, rubs in easily, and will never leave your skin oily or greasy. MyDomaine recently included our cream in their list of best hand creams for winter.
- Consider doubling up on face hydration by layering face oil or hydrating serum with a heavier face cream.
- Apply SPF to any exposed areas in the winter as well as the summer to prevent photo-aging.
3. Hydrate From Within
Lastly, make sure to replenish your internal hydration:
- It's been suggested that increasing daily intake of healthy fats (e.g. nuts, olive oil, avocados) may help with dry skin, as there is a direct connection between gut and skin health.
- A bit of a no-brainer, but be sure to drink lots of water. Hot tea can also help you hydrate and provides some comforting warmth on a chilly day. Or try making this golden latte recipe, that includes a bit of coconut oil for an extra hydration boost.
- Limit alcohol, caffeine, and coffee, as they are all diuretics that contribute to dehydration.
With a bit of extra care, try following these tips in order to ward off and/or transform winter dryness into radiant, supple skin this cold season.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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