Help Your Skin Weather Winter Comfortably
Winter is primetime for dry, itchy, flaky skin, but why? Blustery winds, cold weather outside and artificial heat inside can prevent the skin’s barrier from doing its job, in turn allowing irritants to enter and much-needed moisture to escape. But a few simple steps can help keep your skin calm and comfortable…
Increase hydration: If you normally use a light cream or lotion moisturizer, now’s the time to switch to a richer formulation. A little extra moisture goes a long way to improve dryness and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. (Try our antioxidant-enhanced Universal Moisture for face and Karité Shea Butter Hydrating Body Cream from the neck down!)
Rethink your shower routine: A long, hot shower may help you warm up, but it’s doing no favors for your skin. Keep your shower as brief as possible, and set the water temperature to lukewarm, not hot. And don’t forget to apply moisturizer from head to toe while skin is still damp!
Use a humidifier: Increasing moisture levels in the air can make a world of difference for your skin. Place a humidifier in areas you spend a lot of time, such as your bedroom and office.
Eat more healthy fats: The omega fatty acids found in foods such as wild salmon, flax seeds and avocado can help strengthen your skin’s barrier so moisture stays put. Not into these foods? Oral supplements work, too.
