Cold temperatures and lower humidity levels result in dry air that draws moisture away from the skin. Windy weather and dry indoor heat can make the problem worse. Skin health is important not just for appearance, but more importantly because it performs so many of the body’s critical tasks. Your skin protects your body from many viruses and bacteria you’re exposed to daily. It also protects against the sun's deadly ultraviolet rays that damage cells. Skin needs to be healthy to help you react to important changes around you by feeling pain or pressure.
Cold weather months can significantly compromise skin health, triggering such conditions as xerosis (dry skin) or eczema (itchy, dry, reddish patches or lesions on the skin), which can vary in severity. Bolster your skin for winter with the tips below.
Cleanse your skin, but don’t go overboard. Try not to strip your skin. Instead of long hot showers, take short, lukewarm showers or baths with a non-irritating, non-detergent-based cleanser. Apply a rich cream or ointment-type moisturizer while still wet to capture as much moisture as possible. Gently pat skin dry.
Moisturize daily. Cream-based moisturizers are better than lotions for normal to dry skin. If you have sensitive skin, choose a moisturizer without fragrance or lanolin. Look for one that contains lipids instead. If your skin is extremely dry, try an emollient moisturizer that seals in moisture, followed by another moisturizer on top.
Protect yourself from the wind. Cover your face and use lip balm. Skin protectants and creams with ceramides are effective as well.
Avoid extreme cold. Try to avoid extreme cold, which can cause skin disorders or frostbite. Seek medical attention immediately if you develop color changes in your hands or feet accompanied by pain or ulceration.
Remember sun protection. Winter sun is dangerous to the skin! Even in the winter, you should use a sunscreen with a sun-protection factor of 15 or greater if you plan to be outdoors for prolonged periods. Overexposure to sunlight can lead to premature aging of the skin and skin cancer.
Avoid tanning. Tanning beds and artificial sunlamps are always damaging to the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. If you want to keep your summer glow, DHA-based sunless tanning has been recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, American Academy of Dermatology Association, Canadian Dermatology Association and the American Medical Association as a safer alternative to sun-bathing.
Take vitamin D supplements. During the summer, your natural vitamin D production increases as a result of daily sun exposure, but that exposure decreases in the winter. Supplements can ensure that you get the recommended amounts year round. Vitamin D is essential to maintaining a strong immune system.
Humidify. Room humidifiers can be very beneficial, adding moisture back into the air - just be sure to clean the unit and change the water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
See your dermatologist. Any skin condition, mole or growth that concerns you should be examined — not only in winter but any time of the year.
Remember to take good care of your body and soul – year round! Bliss on Broadway offers a full range of skin care treatments, including hydrating facials perfect for winter. Call us at 562-439-4333. http://www.blissonbroadway.com/