Winter weather is notoriously rough on the skin. When temperatures drop, moisture is pulled out of the air. As a result, the water that keeps your skin supple and smooth will evaporate at a faster rate, leading to dry, flaky, and itchy skin. Even if you avoid the outdoors, indoor heating systems can cause similar conditions that contribute to the problem. Fortunately, following these skin care tips can help maximize your comfort.

Do:

Apply moisturizer regularly.

When applied to the skin, moisturizing creams and lotions can help replenish dry cells and lock moisture in. For the best results, apply moisturizer at least once before bed and whenever you get out of the shower. It’s also better to choose oil-based skin care products over water-based solutions, as they are generally better at keeping moisture in.

Shield yourself from the elements.

Frigid temperatures and high winds will speed up the time in which it takes your skin to become dry and chapped. To defend your body against these elements, cover up with gloves, scarves, and hats.

Stay hydrated.

While moisturizer will help revitalize your body from the outside, it’s also wise to attack dryness from the inside. By drinking a healthy amount of water every day, you will have a steady source of moisture inside your body that can help defend against dryness.

Don’t:

Take long, hot showers.

As comforting as hot showers may be in the wintertime, they can actually deplete the moisture levels in your skin and contribute to excessive dryness. To combat this effect, lower the water temperature to a lukewarm level and keep your time in the shower to a minimum.  

Heat without humidifying.

When it’s cold outside, your heating system will help keep your home safe and comfortable. However, this excess heat will make the air extremely dry. To restore moisture levels inside your home, consider using a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time—especially in the bedroom.

Ignore problem skin.

If the above tips don’t help relieve dry, itchy, or irritated skin, professional care from a dermatologist may be necessary. Through a physical assessment, these skin care providers will determine what the cause of the problem is and what treatments—such as prescription ointments—may offer relief.

When dry skin is adding worry to your winter season, turn to the specialists at Anderson Skin & Cancer Clinic PA. As a trusted dermatologist of Anderson, SC, this provider can accurately identify a wide variety of skin care problems, including excessive dryness and eczema. After your diagnosis, this doctor will introduce you to advanced treatment options—such as prescription topical ointments and oral medications. To learn more about these dermatology services, visit this clinic online. For appointments, call a friendly team member at (864) 224-7577.