In the winter season, the skin tends to respond to the change in temperature. Dry indoor heat, cold air, low humidity levels and harsh winter wind can take away moisture from your skin and leave it looking less radiant than normal, including your face, hands and feet.
SIGNS OF DRY SKIN
Dry skin can make one look and feel rough, itchy, flaky, or scaly. Dry skin, also known as xerosis or xeroderma, has many causes, including cold or dry weather, sun damage, harsh soaps, and over bathing. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of dry skin caused by the winter weather: flakiness, redness, dryness, a feeling of skin tightness, slight to severe scaling or peeling, itchiness, cracks, fine lines or cracks.
STAY GLOWING
Here are some tips to keep your skin looking healthy, even when temperatures dip and there’s no escape from winter’s dry, cold weather.
1: Moisturise
Moisturising after you wash is important. Any time you wash your face, you strip your skin of its natural oils. Oils help to lock in moisture.
2: Adjust your skin routine in winter
Not everyone can use the same products for all four seasons. Your skin’s moisture barrier needs to be healthy in order to respond well to creams such as serums and toners or treatments. If your skin is irritated, it might be more sensitive, especially to ingredients like fragrances and alcohol. Keep your skincare routine simple. Consider using just a moisturiser and sunscreen in the morning and a gentle cleanser with a moisturiser at night. Then, you can slowly incorporate other treatments and ingredients back into your routine.
3: Apply sunscreen daily
Many people believe that sunscreen is not important in winter. Even in winter, harmful UV light can still stress your skin’s moisture barrier, which is vital for maintaining skin health and hydration.
4: Use overnight treatments
Taking care of your skin before bedtime is important. Overnight treatments are an excellent way to revitalise or prevent dry skin. By applying night creams, your skin will have the time it needs to absorb the treatment to replenish your skin with the moisture and oils it needs.
5: Hydrate from the inside
Staying hydrated throughout all seasons is recommended. But many people tend to drink less water in winter. Keeping your skin healthy and glowing to make sure you’re staying well hydrated throughout the day. Not taking in enough fluids can affect the appearance of your skin and dry it out. You may also want to focus on eating foods that are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.