5 Ways to Look After Your Skin in Winter
The days are cold and wet, your coffee breaks increase, and you find yourself bundled in layers upon layers of jerseys, scarves and jackets – yup, it’s definitely winter.
Although you may not be showing a lot of skin, however, that doesn’t mean that this is the time to ignore it. Blustery conditions and staying cooped up indoors can leave your skin dry, itchy and irritated.
Here are five helpful tips to keep in mind when taking care of your skin during the winter season:
Limit Your Shower Time
A long, steaming-hot shower is tempting, but the heat can cause skin irritation. Opt for a five-to-ten minute lukewarm shower, and gently towel yourself dry for healthier, less-irritated skin.
Fragrance-free Cleansers
Regular soaps may contain ingredients and fragrances that irritate your skin, so choose to wash with fragrance-free, moisturising cleansers or gels. Also try using less soap overall and limit your lathering to necessary areas, such as your hands, armpits, genitals and feet.
Apply Sunscreen
Even if you can’t see the sun on darker, dreary days, its harmful UV rays can pass through clouds and still cause damage. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body before stepping outside.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Right
Keeping yourself hydrated doesn’t only apply to hot summer days. Cold temperatures can reduce your body’s thirst by up to 40%, so don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids such as water, black or green tea. If your skin still feels incredibly dry, add foods containing fish oil and flaxseed oil to your diet.
Change Out of Wet Clothes
Remove any articles of damp clothing – such as your shoes, socks, gloves and pants – quickly, as they can rub uncomfortably against your skin and cause it to itch like crazy.
