Lose that Winter Dry Skin

If you live in a northern state, look forward to the changing seasons, and are a certifiable snow lover, then winter can be a wonderful time filled with snowball fights, tubing, skiing, warm fires and hot chocolate. But, as you turn up your furnace – especially with gas heat, the dry air inside and outside can make for constant dry skin. You may notice dry hands, feet, and elbows within the first couple of weeks of winter. It’s also important to remember that the rest of the body needs special attention in the winter months as well.

The best solutions to dry skin respond to the real causes of dry skin in the winter. It’s obvious that the drier air adds to the problem in the winter months. This is because the humidity level in the air outside drops significantly in winter months, even in the more southern states. This is exasperated by indoor heating which strips even more moisture from the air and your skin. Most other causes of dry skin, which are more apparent in the winter months, occur in the shower. Harsh soaps, loofas and other “scrubby” shower accessories, and steamy showers all pull more moisture from your skin. Keeping your skin moisturized and health in the winter is easy if you follow a few simple tricks.

1. Keep your shower lukewarm instead of hot and limit to about 5 minutes. This will prevent the shower from washing away important nutrients in your skin.

2. Exfoliate about every 3-4 weeks to remove dead skin cells and open the pores to receive moisture.

3. Use soft cloths and moisturizing body wash in the shower.

4. Pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing. Rubbing irritates the skin and removes the moisture products you just used in the shower.

5. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize – not just your face, hands and feet.

6. Drink lots and lots of water. Enjoy the winter months and get into a regular skincare regimen.

You’ll look better and feel better now and in the future. For more information on skincare tips, products, and business opportunities, visit the Ageless Rose. Changing lives and Changing skin with Rodan and Fields Dermatologists.