The Best Skin Care for the Winter Months

There is never a good season for dry skin. Hot, summer months mean over exposure to sun and salty or chlorinated water. Cold weather, on the other hand, means less moisture and more dryness.



But the pains of dry face and dry skin can be prevented if you know what to do. For starters, you should know that dry skin care includes using moisturizing products as well as avoiding certain situations that may aggravate dry skin. It may seem like a hassle at first, but it is well worth the effort.



Skin Care Products and Facial Dry Skin



It is important to have your moisturizer at hand during the winter. It is also possible that you will need to use it more than twice a day. If this is the case, apply your moisturizer whenever you feel your skin is too tight.



Another important aspect of skin care is exfoliating. By exfoliating you are increase cell turnover and helping reveal healthy skin cells that lie underneath dead cells. Make sure to stay away from mechanical abrasives and opt for natural, chemical exfoliators such as milk or oatmeal mixed with honey or grapefruit juice.



Change to a cream cleanser if you are using soap or a soapy, gel cleanser to wash your face. Using soap and water on dry skin will only promote more dryness. However, a cream cleanser will help cleanse your face without stripping away natural oils or moisture.



If you notice that you have really dry skin as opposed to normal dry skin, try using oil instead of a cream cleanser. Olive oil is a great way of cleansing your skin while also maintaining it moisturized. It can also be used as a moisturizer for extremely dry skin and hair.



Everyday Situations that Promote Dryness



Facial skin care isn't solely about the products you use. Sometimes there are simple daily situations can promote dryness, especially during the winter months. This is why you should know what they are to avoid them.



First of all you should always remember to bundle up before going outside because the cold wind will always rob moisture from your skin. Make sure you protect your face, neck, hands and legs with warmer garments like scarves, gloves and longer socks.



Secondly, avoid exposure to open flames. Everyone knows that a fireplace is a cozy place during winter months, but it can actually lead to dry skin. This happens because the heat from the flames causes the moisture on your skin and in the air to evaporate leading to dry skin.



Third, to counteract this effect, use a humidifier. A humidifier put moisture back into the air and will keep your skin from losing moisture. Another tip is to reduce your central heating. This will also have a positive effect on dry skin.