Any skincare regimen is incomplete without a proper cleansing of skin but choosing the right one during winter becomes essential. It's much better to use cream or oil-based cleansers that make the cleansing process more effective while minimising the loss of moisture.
The dryness can be minimised by applying a good amount of moisture to the skin immediately after cleansing the face and the rest of the body. After washing the skin, allow it to remain a little wet, but be sure to use a towel to pat the area dry, followed by the application of a thick moisturiser.
The light-weight moisturiser used may not be suitable for winter. Change from the lightweight moisturiser to a thicker oil-based moisturiser in order to increase the penetration and barrier of the moisture. Oils like jojoba, argan, and avocado offer both hydration and moisture retention benefits.
Hot showers feel nice during the winter but the physiological effects of the hot shower would be negative as hot water removes the oils from the skin and makes it dry. Attempt to use warm water at most, and try to limit the duration of the showers.
Heating systems can sometimes make air dry, and even cause dryness to the skin. Try using a humidifier in places that are used a lot during the day to introduce some moisture. This will keep your skin hydrated and minimise the effects of indoor heating during the long period of time.
Exfoliation is the process where old skin cells are shed off the body, so that skin doesn’t look and feel rough. Some of the causes of skin sensitivity include the cold, so it is best to choose an exfoliating agent that is suitable for sensitive skin and use it no more than 1-2 times per week.
Winter dryness can also cause your skin to lose moisture, be sure to cover the area of skin that will be exposed with a scarf or gloves. Apply a lip balm containing shea butter or beeswax to the lips and prevent dryness, and do not forget to apply a sunscreen containing a broad-spectrum SPF.
Perfumes, alcohols or sulfates can aggravate the thinning of winter skin. Seek products that have been identified as being free of aromas or fragrances such as 'hypoallergenic'. To combat skin discomfort, choose easy and mild compositions that have skin-calming aloe, chamomile, or oatmeal.
Include hydrating mask to your skincare routine once or twice a week. Consider masks infused with honey, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera which nourishes the skin. Removing the mask according to the prescribed cover time and subsequent application of moisturiser preserves extra water.
Plenty of water ought to be ingested as a necessity for skin hydration both internally and externally. Water consumption almost falls to intolerable levels during winter seasons, however remaining hydrated is important as your skin will maintain its elasticity as well as health.
If despite following a winter-oil regimen, your skin is still outraged and very dry or very irritated, a dermatological consultation might be necessary. Sustained excessive dryness of the skin may sometimes be a symptom of dermopathies like eczema or psoriasis and may demand medications.
Dr. Simrat Sandhu, Cosmetic Physician, MD, Cosmetique The Aesthetic Centre