So, whether you’re getting outside for some activity or staying settled in by the fire, your skin is exposed to less-than-ideal conditions. Here are some ways to keep skin healthy during the winter:
Get a humidifier: Investing in a humidifier for your bedroom/home can help add moisture to dry warm air inside you’re your home.
Keep the thermostat a little cooler: Cranking the heat can suck the moisture from your home, so instead of turning it way up when the outdoor temperature creeps down, keep it at a cool, comfortable setting (68°F – 72°F; 20°C – 22°C).
Limit shower time/temperature: Taking a long, steamy shower can feel great, but it might not be the best for your skin. Instead, try taking a shorter, 5-10-minute shower or bath. Also, when washing your hands, go lukewarm instead of hot.
Moisturize regularly: After washing, slather on some moisturizer. Creams and ointments are best suited for winter temperatures. Try wearing gloves while washing dishes or cleaning around the house.
Wear sunscreen: The sun may not show up as much or for as long during the winter, but it is still a threat to skin health, mainly when there is snow to reflect it. UV rays can come through clouds even when it’s dark, dreary, and gray. Wear sunscreen year-round to protect your skin.
Eat right and stay hydrated: Skin moisture is also impacted by diet. Eating a healthy nutrient-dense diet, rich in omega-3’s and omega-6 fatty acids, can help contribute to most skin. Remembering to sip water throughout the day can also help.
These are just a few of the things you can do to help keep skin hydrated and minimize the likelihood of irritated, dry skin.