Winter, and especially Chicago winter, with its many days of below-freezing, dry weather, can wreak havoc on your skin. For many, these skin issues go beyond general tightness and discomfort, to flaking and cracking, going from uncomfortable to downright painful. However, there are some simple things you can do to keep your skin healthy this winter season:
Keep properly hydrated
The first thing to do when battling dry skin is to ensure your body has adequate fluids to replenish the moisture being removed from your skin by harsh winter weather. Staying well-hydrated in the wintertime is just as important as in the summertime.
Increase your use of moisturizer
This is an obvious solution to preventing skin dryness. The one thing to note is that your spring/summer moisturizer may not be up to the task in the wintertime, and you may have to find a thicker, oil-based moisturizer (as opposed to the quick-drying, water based-variety) to keep your skin properly hydrated.
Don’t forget about sunscreen
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that sunscreen is only for the summertime. The sun’s rays can be just as strong in the winter, especially when reflected off a fresh snow. So, if you’re experiencing dry skin on your face and know you’ll be spending time outdoors, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to prevent the drying out of your skin.
Limit hot showers
A hot shower when it’s freezing out can feel great, but the hot water can further dry out your skin. If you’re trying to keep your skin more moist, you’re better off going with warm, instead of hot, water.
Wear gloves, and moisturize your hands frequently
The hands a major dry-skin problem for many during the wintertime, because they’re so often exposed to the elements and because of increased hand washing due to flu season. To prevent painful peeling and cracking, get a quality pair of gloves, and don’t forget to moisturize after washing your hands.
Invest in a humidifier
— if dry skin is a big enough of a problem for you, you may want to consider buying a humidifier unit for your home. When your furnace heats your home, it removes moisture from the already dry winter air. A humidifier can add that moisture back in, creating a more comfortable environment in your home.
Follow these tips and your skin should be in good shape when the temperatures begin to plummet. And if even after all of these preventative measures dry skin is still a problem, you’ll likely want to consult a specialist who can present you with advice appropriate for your specific situation.
