With Halloween in the past and Thanksgiving break fast approaching, the winter season is upon us. The cold weather is marked by its drastically low temperatures and lack of humidity, and as a result, the falling temperatures will cause irritation in the skin barrier, making it significantly more difficult to retain moisture and reduce peeling skin. Here are a few suggestions on how you can prevent dryness and dehydration of your skin despite the freezing cold!
- reduce your hot showers
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As soothing and relaxing as a hot shower can be, the higher the temperature of the water, the worse it is for your skin. When taking a bath, ensure that the water is not too hot by checking to see if your skin turns red upon contact with the water. Hot water is linked to dry skin as well as eczema and flakiness. In addition, avoid washing your hands and face under steaming hot water. Washing your face and body is best under lukewarm/room temperature water.
- Change up your products
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The cold weather calls for thicker face creams and more occlusive ingredients that act as a protective seal on the skin barrier. For drier skin types, an occlusive product such as Aquaphor or Vaseline serves as a shield over the skin and reduces the chances of losing moisture, therefore, preventing the loss of hydration. For oily skin types, emollients are more efficient and serve the same purpose as occlusives would. Examples of emollients include shea butter and coconut oil. As always, products should only be used in moderation as over-utilizing it can lead to further irritation.
- invest in a humidifier
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Even though humidifiers are not allowed inside of most college dorms, keeping one at home is a smart way to retain moisture in your skin. Although a humidifier will help lock in moisture, it should not replace the role of moisturizers or creams. It is also important to regularly clean the humidifier, as one with bacteria and mold is just as inefficient for the skin as not having one at all.
“Running a humidifier pulls moisture back into the air to improve dry, itchy skin and help it retain that hydration.”
Rearick, Lauren. “Should You Use a Humidifier to Hydrate Dry Skin?” Real Simple, Real Simple, 29 Aug. 2022, https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/humidifier-benefits#:~:text=%22Running%20a%20humidifier%20pulls%20moisture,the%20use%20of%20a%20humidifier.
- Sunscreen is (still) a must
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Although winter days are often cloudy and lack sun exposure, the sun’s UV rays will continue to project onto your skin. Wearing sunscreen and reapplying consistently is a sure and science-backed method to reduce skin cancer, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen protects your skin barrier and therefore helps retain its moisture throughout the cold season.
Regardless of how cold and gloomy each day can get, maintaining your skin’s health is a method of self-care and ultimately will improve your mood and productivity throughout the winter season. Always be sure to keep a hand cream on standby for any moment that you experience any dryness, and pay close attention to how your skin continuously changes during the cold weather. Stay hydrated!