Are Your Winter Habits Making Your Dry Skin Worse?

It’s no secret winter weather is hard on skin. Lower humidity means air is dryer overall, which makes your skin dry out as well. Obviously, you cannot control the weather. However, many times people adopt a winter routine that makes dry skin worse.

Every day habits like taking hot showers or cranking up the heat can adversely affect anyone’s skin. If you have conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and cracked heels, bad winter habits can trigger or worsen symptoms.

It’s very important to go especially easy on your skin during the winter. Here, we’ll outline bad winter habits for dry skin.

Are you taking longer baths and showers?

Cold weather can make it tempting to warm up with a long, hot bath or shower. However, this can be terrible for dry skin. Hot water depletes natural oils from the skin.

Not only does this result in dry, itchy skin, if you have eczema or psoriasis it could trigger a flare up.

During winter, when the air is dry, it’s best to stick to five to ten minute showers. Pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing it and apply a skin moisturizer afterwards such as Delfina Dry Skin Oil.

Are you cranking up the heat?

During the winter months, you’ll probably be tempted to turn up the heat. However, furnaces and heaters breed dry air, which has a negative impact on your skin. If you have psoriasis or eczema, this can trigger or worsen flare-ups.

This does not mean you have to suffer through a cold home, however. Try setting the thermostat at a mild temperature in the upper 60s or lower 70s rather than cranking it up too high. You can also invest in a humidifier to combat negative effects from your home heating system. 

Are you using harsh skin products?

Moisturizing is even more important in the winter, when your skin needs some extra care due to harsh weather conditions. However, be careful what kind of products you’re using. Many over-the-counter skin products are packed with artificial ingredients that can exacerbate dry skin. Alcohol-based products especially – like hand sanitizers, acne washes, and even some types of makeup – are also tough on dry skin.

You should of course apply moisturizer regularly if you have sensitive skin or have a skin condition.

Delfina has been highly effective in being a solution for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and cracked heels.

Are you skipping the sunscreen?

Even in the winter, your skin is susceptible to damage from the sun. Damaging rays still reach the Earth during the winter, and snow can even amplify the sun’s effects by reflecting sunlight onto your skin.

If you’re going to be outdoors during the day, always apply sunscreen with SPF 30. Sunscreen doesn’t just help keep your skin safe. Regular use of sunscreen also helps as a solution for wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Are you wearing itchy clothing?

The fact that it’s sweater weather often means bad news for your skin. Itchy fabrics like wool should never be worn directly against your skin as it’s an irritant. If your skin is already dry and itchy, this can only make it worse.

You can still bundle up, however, but opt for multiple layers of breathable fabrics like cotton over a single thick sweater.

Also, use discretion with laundry detergents. Opt for natural, fragrant-free products if you're prone to dry skin or have conditions like eczema or psoriasis. This isn’t just good advice for the winter either. Using detergents free of unnecessary additives is important year round for those with sensitive skin.

Conclusion

If you have dry skin, winter conditions can make it worse. While a lot is beyond your control, there are steps you can take to keep your skin healthy during the colder months. Avoiding the above bad winter habits for dry skin can help.

Even small changes to your routine can make a big impact on your skin’s health. The best way to protect your skin during the winter is to be extra aware not only of your skin care routine but your day-to-day habits. When the air is dry, something as simple as a long shower can have a negative impact on your skin.

Regular moisturizing is vital in winter as it can be a solution for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and cracked heels. Delfina Dry Skin Oil stimulates hydration beneath the skin’s surface, which can be an invaluable means to combat winter dryness and related conditions.

If you’re interested to learn more about Delfina or skin care in general, reach out to us anytime. We understand the importance of a quality skin care routine, especially for those with sensitive skin, so we’re happy to help in any way we can.