The plunging temperatures, dry air, and stinging winter winds do your skin no favors. Don’t wait until your skin becomes dry, chapped, and fissured before doing something about it. Your dermatologist can give you some expert pointers to get your skin ready for the harsh winter weather.
Pamper your skin while you bathe.
Nothing beats a hot shower after you’ve been shoveling snow during a storm, but this isn’t helpful for your skin. Hot water dries out your skin, and makes it itchier. Try to limit your time in the shower, and use warm water instead of hot. Choose a hypoallergenic cleanser, and use a soft towel to blot your skin dry.
Invest in high-quality moisturizer.
When it’s time to swap your summer clothes for your winter wardrobe, you should also switch from lotion moisturizers to creams. Creams are heavier, but they moisturize and protect the skin more effectively. Look for a cream moisturizer with olive oil, shea butter, or jojoba oil. Lanolin, mineral oil, dimethicone, and petrolatum are also good ingredients for dry skin. While you’re shopping, get a travel-size bottle of cream to stash in your handbag, and reapply generously after washing your hands.
Protect your hands with gloves.
The hands typically become drier, itchier, and more fissured compared to the rest of the skin, simply because they are washed more frequently. Wear rubber gloves before washing the dishes, and put on work gloves if you plan to take care of outdoor tasks.
Clean your humidifier.
The dry air is your skin’s enemy during the winter months. Buy a humidifier or clean out your old one to get rid of allergens like mold. Place it in your bedroom and turn it on at night.
For cosmetic dermatology care that is customized to meet your personal needs, you can turn to Arlington Dermatology. We understand the unique skin care challenges that seasonal changes bring, and can recommend the best products for you based on your skin type and lifestyle. Call our dermatology office in Arlington Heights at [company-phone id=1].
