5 Ways to Avoid Dry Skin in the Winter
If it isn’t bad enough that the weather turns bitterly cold in winter, you then have to contend with dry, cracked and uncomfortable skin too! Plus with the cold temperatures lasting a long while, it means itchy, sore and unsightly skin for months. It really doesn’t have to be that way. No, we can’t change the weather but we can help you to avoid dry skin in the winter and instead enjoy your soft, smooth and healthy skin. Before we start, let’s look at the science behind your skin.
Your skin consists of multiple layers. The very top layers are called the Stratum Corneum. Made from dead skin cells, think of these layers as your skin’s protection. They do their best to prevent dryness and chapping. The problem is, some people’s skin is better at keeping moisture locked in than others and when environmental factors such as cold, dry air kicking in then the skin has to work harder. Add in heaters and lots of people’s skin doesn’t stand a chance in winter because the Stratum Corneum dries out and starts to leak its natural moisture! Then, skin gets drier and drier, you start to itch and scratch, once that vicious circle begins, skin starts to crack. So what can you do? Here’s how to deal with cracked skin in winter:
Moisturize
First things first, skin needs moisture, all year round. When the temperature drops, you should up your moisturizing routine but don’t just reach for any old moisturizer. You need something that is very kind to your skin or you could make the condition worse. Avoid harsh chemicals, go for something as natural as possible and if you can, look for unfragranced products. Fragrance notoriously consists of nasty chemicals that often irritate.
Delfina Skin Dry Skin Oil will change the way your skin experiences winter as it will eliminate any cracks and dryness. You’ll find a little goes a long way and it really locks in moisture so skin feels soft all-day long.
Avoid Very Hot Showers or Baths
Very hot water strips skin of its natural oils. So, keep your shower or bath warm and avoid using scented shower gels or similar. Again, keep it as natural as you can and don’t use anything with parabens or sulphates. These are known skin irritants. Try not to linger in the shower, as tempting as it may be! Too long in hot water can really irritate your skin.
Get a Water Softener
On the subject of hot showers or baths and lingering in the comfort of water, if you live in a hard water area, your water could be causing your skin more aggravation than necessary. It might be worth you investing in a water softener so you don’t suffer with limescale in your water. A water softener will give you an altogether kinder shower experience.
"In the winter time, my hands get extremely dry. I felt dryness during other times of the year as well. Every product I used only provided temporary relief. The minute I went to the bathroom to wash my hands, the effects would go away and the skin would become dry again. When Dr. Chilingaryan told me that his skin oil survives any contact with water regardless of whether of not I use soap and how many times I wash my hands, I could not believe him. I thought surely by now I would've heard about such a product if such a product existed. But I am truly amazed at how true his representations were about the product. I don't even remember about my dry skin anymore after using his product only for a few times."
- Narine M.
Get a Humidifier
Dry air is a culprit too and with radiators and heaters on full-blast to combat the cold temperatures, it’s no wonder your skin suffers. To fight back, try a humidifier which adds moisture to the air.
Drink Water
Hydration also comes from within and while the cold air and heating dries out your skin, you need to have plenty of moisture inside your body too. So drink lots of water! Water also acts as a cleanser, removing toxins and impurities from your body. Hydrated skin looks far better than parched skin, so give your skin every possible chance of staying healthy in winter. If you don’t like the flavor of plain old water – add some slices of fresh fruit, lemon or strawberries make it pleasantly sweet or why not try slices of cucumber and mint together?
