Winter Skin Woes? Here’s What to Do – and Not

Winter can be tough on your skin. The cold, dry air can strip away moisture, leaving your skin feeling rough, dry, and itchy. Add in the stress of the holiday season, and you've got a recipe for skin disaster.

But don't despair! There are plenty of things you can do to keep your skin healthy and glowing all winter long. Here are a few tips:

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. This is the most important thing you can do for your skin in the winter. Choose a moisturizer that is rich and creamy, and apply it liberally to your skin several times a day. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter. These ingredients help to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.

Avoid harsh cleansers. Harsh cleansers can strip away your skin's natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and irritated. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that is designed for sensitive skin.

Take shorter, cooler showers. Hot water can dry out your skin, so try to limit your showers to 10-15 minutes. And turn down the temperature of the water as low as you can comfortably tolerate.

Wear gloves when you're outside. The cold weather can be harsh on your hands, so be sure to wear gloves when you're outside. This will help to protect your skin from the wind and the cold.

Use a humidifier at home. Dry air can dry out your skin, so consider using a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air. This can help to improve your skin's hydration and reduce itching and irritation.

Drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water is important for your overall health, and it can also help to improve your skin's hydration. Aim for eight glasses of water per day.

Exfoliate regularly. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This can help to improve your skin's texture and radiance. Be sure to exfoliate gently, as over-exfoliating can damage your skin.

Protect your skin from the sun. Even in the winter, the sun's UV rays can damage your skin. Be sure to wear sunscreen every day, even if you're not planning on spending much time outdoors.

See a dermatologist if your skin problems persist. If you're experiencing severe skin problems, such as extreme dryness, cracking, or bleeding, see a dermatologist. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Don't:

- Don't use harsh chemicals on your skin. Harsh chemicals can damage your skin's natural barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to damage from the elements.

- Don't pick at your skin. Picking at your skin can cause scarring and infection.

- Don't over-exfoliate. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin and make it more susceptible to irritation.

By following these tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and glowing all winter long.