Winter Skin Solutions

As temperatures drop, Winter weather hits and heaters come on, the challenge to keep skin healthy begins. Dry air decreases the thin layer of oil that traps moisture in the skin, which can cause itchy, painful conditions such as severe dry skin, and even flares of eczema and psoriasis.

“If we stop producing moisture or if heating sucks it out of the skin, and it’s not being replaced that will tend to cause little cracks that affect the barrier of the skin,” according to Alan Menter, MD, chair of the division of dermatology at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas in a recent article in Health magazine.

Here’s an effective action plan to help you minimize the negative effects of Winter on your skin:

Take Quick Showers

1. Keep the shower as brief as possible, and use lukewarm, not hot water.
2. Use moisture-rich cleansers in the bath or shower.
3. Gently pat skin dry to avoid over-drying or irritating skin.
4. Apply moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.

Moisturize

You must replace the moisture that the dry air depletes from the skin, and remember to use a good broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher everyday, even in Winter, to help protect your skin.

1. Regularly replenish the skin with moisturizers, especially after bathing.A good skin hydrator with hyaluronic acid, like Charisma Skin’s Hydra Gel, helps your skin cells attract and retain moisture.
2. You may even want to try wrapping problem areas (if you have severe dryness, eczema or psoriasis) in plastic wrap for 30 minutes to an hour after moisturizing.It takes time, but the results of baby soft skin may be worth it if you suffer from one of the above skin conditions.
3. Change the air around you. Add a humidifier to increase the moisture levels in your home. Experts recommend keeping the humidity between 30% - 50% (which you can measure with a hydrometer).

Stay Healthy

Get adequate rest, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet.New Year’s is a great time to renew your commit to good habits such as these!

Relieve Stress

Keep up your regular exercise plan, or begin a new regimen, and make time in your schedule for some recreation.

Following these few tips will help you and your skin be healthier this Winter!  Much of this info comes from a recent article in Health magazine online.