Cold winters are generally harsh on your skin. It’s clear that your skin will be affected by consistent cold air, wind, and extremely low humidity. The dry climate also saps moisture from your skin that may lead to redness, itchiness, and cracking, along with worse skin conditions like eczema and acne.
With proper skincare, one can beat the dry climate and keep your skin healthy. Here are some tips from skin care clinic experts to protect your skin during winters.
Eat Loads of Healthy Fats (Omega-3)
One of the best ways to keep your skin soft and supple is to moisturize it through eating healthy food. Here, Omega 3 fats can come to the rescue, keeping your skin flexible and healthy. Eating whole foods consisting of Omega 3 fats like nuts, chia seeds, avocados, and lean meats like chicken, beef, cheese, and some amount of milk can help in this regard. Consider eating small fish along with salmon and sardines. Other good sources of fats include coconut oil, olive oil, and cod liver oil.
Consume Veggies and Fruits
Your skin needs vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamins A, C, and E, along with zinc and selenium to help keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. The antioxidants within fruits and vegetables help people to fight aging and free radicals. Eat less fruit to avoid excess sugar. It is preferable to eat only the organic stuff.
Drink Lots Of Fluids
Water keeps the body hydrated, and you should drink enough water in combination with plenty of vitamins and minerals and salts so that the body retains water easily.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can help you tone your body and warm it up while increasing blood circulation and nutrient absorption to your skin. This helps your body to combat dry climate and cold atmosphere.
Cover your Skin with Clothes
Although obvious, it is essential to cover your body parts with woollen clothes, socks, gloves, scarfs, and the like to not allow your skin to be exposed to the harsh, cold climate. Protect your skin from elements that absorb moisture from your skin so it does not turn dry.
Protect your skin from the sun
Even though the winters are cold and harsh, the sun is not a respite. The sun itself can damage your skin since UVA rays still penetrate atmosphere and cause your skin to age faster than ever. Wear a hat when outside, along with full-coverage clothing. Apply some sunscreen lotions when your body is set for extended sun exposure.
Limit Exfoliation of your Skin
Don’t over-exfoliate your dry skin. Do it only once a week; it’s also a good idea to wash your face lightly with a wash cloth. Do your best to avoid over-exertion or vigorous exfoliation. Being gentle is the key.
Use A Hydrating Mask
During winters, it is possible that your skin may become overly dry. Consider using a homemade hydrating mask that includes ingredients like yogurt, egg yolk, coconut, jojoba, olive oil or milk. Use a combination of these ingredients for a home-made hydrating mask.
Use Mild Soap and Humidifiers
Use mild soaps on your body or stick to water and mild rubbing for bathing. Try olive oil or palm oil soaps or soaps made of natural oils. Water and a wash cloth are more than enough during winters! Use humidifiers whenever there is a lack of humidity in the air.