Winter weather got your skin down?
If your skin is itchy, parched, flakey, or even cracking, read on - we've got a few reminders and maybe even a few tips you haven't heard yet to keep your skin protected and hydrated during dry, winter days.
If you're in a colder climate, the humidity in the air is low, which causes water to literally evaporate out of our skin. In addition, most of us are guilty of cranking up the heat in the furnace and the shower - two more things that will suck moisture and natural oils right out of us. There are many things we can do to make sure we're staying hydrated for optimal skin function and appearance.
Here are our recommendations to practice all winter, and all year, to keep your bod fresh and dewy.
HYDRATE FROM WITHIN: Drink lots of hydrating fluids like water and decaf teas. You can also increase moisture retention by adding more oils and fats, like avocado and olive oil to your diet.
DEHYDRATE LESS: Consume less coffee, alcohol, energy drinks, and sodium. Counter by drinking extra water when you do consume them.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM WARM/HOT WATER: Apply heavier moisturizers like body butter and oil. Pro tip: Apply butters like shea and cocoa to dry areas of your skin before showers and baths. Do the same to the backs of your hands before washing dishes or other activities that require warm water.
TAKE SHORTER SHOWERS: Warm to hot water will wash away your natural oils and moisture leaving your skin parched looking and itchy.
DON'T USE SOAP ON (MOST OF) YOUR BODY: Just your pits and bits, with a low to zero fragrance, clean-ingredient product. Soaps and warm water together will dry your skin out faster than anything and leave you with flaky, scaly cells.
PAT YOUR SKIN DRY: Don't rub your skin dry with a towel after showering, washing your face, and washing your hands. Keep this in mind especially for the areas with thinner skin such as your face, the backs of your hands, and your arms. Patting gently will help avoid stripping your natural oils.
If you've got your own tips and tricks for dry skin, leave us a comment! We'd love to hear what you're doing to keep your skin hydrated and protected.