Skincare in winter

Winters are very harsh on skin. They strip the skin of its moisture making it very dry, itchy, and making it prone to eczemas and infections. Following the below tips will not only make your skin healthy in winters but give it a glow.

The most common mistake everybody tends to do is use very hot water for baths as it is very soothing. Temporarily it might be very comfortable standing under a hot shower but it makes the skin very dry. Hence it is best to use lukewarm water.

After bath do not forget to use a moisturizing lotion all over the body preferably those that contain ceramides.

Also in winters we tend to drink less water as we sweat less. Though it might feel difficult to drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated from within.

Exposed skin tends to dry up faster. So cover yourself up (socks, gloves, etc) and apply extra moisturizer or longer lasting thicker formulations for the skin that is exposed to the cold winds. Humidifiers may be installed in the homes or work places. Room heaters are also notorious in reducing the room humidity. 

The skincare products that we use in summers are very different from what is required in winters. Change the products to gentle moisturizing soaps, face wash, etc. avoid excessive usage of alcohol based products and astringents. Reduce scrubbing of the skin. Ceramide, hyaluronic acid, glycerin based moisturizers are preferable.

Inspite of all this do not forget or avoid sunscreens. Because physical sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide not only protect you from the tempting sun rays of winters but also act as a physical barrier.

Hands and feet (even the soles) are the most exposed parts and we tend to wash them multiple times owing to our daily work. Hence take extra care of them.

Woolen clothes can irritate the skin especially in atopics. Hence choose the winter clothing wisely. Or avoid direct contact with such clothes. An extra layer of thermal wear can be added in between.

For people who live in snowy conditions, do not forget sunglasses to protect your eyes and the skin around your eyes as light that reflects from the snow is harmful.

In the end, do not forget to have a proper diet rich in nutrients like fruits and vegetables.