It’s getting colder, which means dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin can become a struggle, especially when we live in a humid climate. But staying soft and smooth is still possible, even as the temperature drops.
A Simple Plan for Hydrated, Healthy Skin
The good news? You don’t have to suffer from dry skin all season. Keep your skin comfortable and hydrated by making a few small changes to your routine.
Moisturize twice a day. Use a fragrance-free, rich moisturizer after your shower and before bed to lock in moisture. Your skin needs extra hydration in the fall and winter; this routine will help you stay ahead of dryness.
Drink more water. Hydration from the inside is just as important as from the outside. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Use a humidifier. Heating systems dry the air in your home, making your skin even drier. A humidifier helps to add moisture back into the air, making it easier for your skin to stay hydrated.
Take short, lukewarm showers. It’s tempting to take long, hot showers in cold weather, but hot water strips your skin of its natural oils. Stick to lukewarm water to protect your skin and keep showers short.
Use gentle, fragrance-free products. Avoid harsh cleansers or products containing alcohol, fragrances, or dyes. These ingredients can irritate your skin and exacerbate dryness. Instead, opt for gentle products designed to lock in moisture.
What the Pros Recommend
When managing dry skin, using the right products is crucial. Here are a few options that can make a big difference:
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+
This balm is a lifesaver for severely dry skin. It’s rich in shea butter and glycerin, restoring your skin’s natural barrier and providing lasting hydration.
Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
If you have sensitive skin, Vanicream is an excellent option. It’s free from common irritants like dyes, fragrances and parabens, making it gentle but effective at relieving dry skin.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
This is a popular choice because it contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help restore the skin’s barrier and retain moisture, keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day.
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
Cetaphil’s non-greasy formula is perfect for everyday use. It absorbs quickly and offers long-lasting hydration, making it a favorite for dry skin sufferers.
What to Avoid
It’s also important to be mindful of what to avoid when treating dry skin. Steer clear of alcohol-based products, fragrances and dyes, which can irritate your skin and make dryness worse.
Over-exfoliating is another common mistake. While it may seem like exfoliating could help remove dry, flaky skin, it can damage your skin’s barrier and lead to more moisture loss.
Dry skin doesn’t have to be a given in the cooler months. Keeping your skin hydrated with the right products and a few simple changes to your routine will keep you comfortable, no matter the weather.
Do you think your dry skin might be eczema or something else? Schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns with Dr. Hayden Franks, Bailey Pollock, PA-C or Elizabeth Turbeville, PA-C.