What Should You Do to Prevent Dry Skin?
By Adam Rauhauser
W
hen winter’s cold temperatures come rolling in, everyone loves to go outside and enjoy the season’s blessings. Unfortunately, winter’s crisp, dry air can be hard on your skin. “Winter itch” (or xerosis, as doctors refer to it) might seem like an inevitable consequence of the season. However, did you know that you can prevent irritated skin with just a few helpful habits? You might be worried that treating your dry skin will be complicated or that it will empty your wallet. Fortunately, taking care of your skin in winter doesn’t have to be expensive or confusing. Science has found numerous effective, inexpensive ways to help keep your skin happy and beautiful during the long winter months. By being careful about the environment around your skin, you can help protect it from unnecessary damage and exposure. You can also protect your skin by picking the right skincare products and by keeping a close eye on the foods you regularly consume. If you follow the easy steps outlined below, anyone can develop a skincare routine that will help fight back the dryness of winter.
Creating a Healthy Environment for Your Skin The weather changes don’t mean you can’t minimize the stress you put on your skin. Shari Marchbein, a New York City dermatologist, says that placing a humidifier in your home can be a valuable first step to healthy skin. “A cool air humidifier increases the moisture level in the air,” she says, minimizing the time your skin spends in an environment that could dehydrate it. For superior results, set the dehumidifier to 60%. You should also develop a habit of taking careful showers. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends 5-10 minute showers in warm but not hot water. Follow that up with a gentle towel-off, and limit yourself to one shower per day to avoid depleting your skin of oils. Take careful note of the soaps you use; avoid those that include alcohols, perfumes, or deodorants. Additionally, be mindful of other potential irritants. Use non-irritating laundry detergents and stay out of chlorinated water when possible. If your skin is sensitive, you should consider avoiding irritating fabrics like wool. Your winter fits might look great, but make sure they aren’t harming your skin!
