‘Tis the season to be jolly.” Indeed, it is. Though your skin might say otherwise. Dry, scaly and cracked skin is an omnipresent issue that beauty fanatics the world over have to ceaselessly deal with every winter. How to maintain that soft, glowing look you’ve worked so hard to achieve all summer is a constant point of concern amid all the excitement that winter has to offer.
So, as the days grow short and the nights grow longer, here are some steps you can follow to ensure that your skin remains smooth and crack-free throughout the season:
1- Moisturize:
Humidity levels decrease during the winter, making it necessary to keep to your skin moist as much as possible. Vaseline locks in moisture, making it an effective moisturizing agent. Opt for oil-based ointments and creams over lotions as they form a protective, moisture-retaining layer over the skin. Note that not all oils may be good for the face; so, choose products that contain ‘non-clogging oils’ such as avocado, olive or almond oil or go the natural route and use these oils as they are. Remember though to choose products specific to your skin type.
2- Say No To Hot Showers:
Try bathing in warm water instead of hot water. Higher temperatures lead to the breakdown of lipid barriers in the skin, accelerating the loss of moisture as a result. Also, reduce your time in the shower to 5-10 minutes and moisturize immediately after to trap much-needed existing moisture. For itchy dry skin, add a cup of baking soda or oatmeal in lukewarm bathwater for instant relief, while avoiding long soaks as they will only aggravate the skin further.
3- Layer the Wool:
Few materials can keep you as warm as wool. This is due to air pockets between the woolen fibers which prevent air movement within the pockets, keeping it still and the body warm. However, woolen clothing can sometimes feel rough and cause irritation, so wear thin cotton or silk garments underneath woolen shirts and sweaters. The same goes for woolen gloves.
4- Lip Balms for Un-chapped Lips:
Dry lips can lead to chapping, cracks and eventual bleeding. Periodically apply a lip balm to reduce exposure to dry air, particularly when going outside. You can also remove excess dry skin by gently brushing your lips with a toothbrush. Avoid doing this regularly though, as excessive brushing can damage the soft skin underneath.
5- Keep Away from the Heat:
Electric or gas-powered heating units are a winter staple. However, close proximity to heat for prolonged periods of time results in loss of moisture, dryness and flakiness. Choose instead to wear multiple layers of warm clothing.
If making these changes to your daily routine isn’t effective, you can Book Appointments with Top Specialists in Multan, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com with ease. Call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance in finding the RIGHT Doctor for your dermatological needs.
