Quick Tips to Help Dry Skin?

Credit: Flickr / Katie Tegtmeyer

Lip balm can protect your lips from cracking in winter

Dry winter skin is not inevitable. Here’s how to restore smooth skin all year round

Cold weather, dry air and harsh winter winds can take their toll on your skin, sometimes leading to skin that cracks, itches and flakes.

Remember to keep your skin healthy and hydrated, even during the harsh winter season.

How to Fix Dry Skin

• Drink plenty of fluids. It helps counteract the moisture-sapping effects of dry air on your skin.
• When showering or washing your hands, use lukewarm water. Hot water robs skin of moisture.

• Bathe rather than shower, and add bath oil to the water.

• Use mild soap and body washes that contain glycerin or plant oils, as they are gentler on the skin. Deodorant and antibacterial soaps leave a film that increases dryness.

• Exfoliate once a week. Removing dead skin cells will help your skin absorb moisturizers.

• After your shower or bath, pat yourself dry. Rubbing with a towel dries out the skin.

• Apply a rich skin moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This will help seal in moisture.

• Apply sunscreen every day – even in winter.

• Use lip balm or petroleum jelly to protect your lips. 

• Invest in a humidifier. Humidity levels between 40% and 50% are healthier for your skin and your lungs.

Originally published in Wellness Matters, Canada Wide Media’s quarterly newsletter on health and wellness.