Winter is the time for hot chocolate, bundling up and keeping cozy by a warm fire.
It’s also the time for static everywhere, below freezing temperatures (in some areas) and dry skin.
In the winter it seems like it takes 10 times more lotion to keep your skin soft and smooth than it does the rest of the year.
But it’s not all about lotion. There are plenty of other ways to keep your skin hydrated and fresh during these gruesome winter months.Drink plenty of water. By drinking the recommended eight cups of water a day, you’ll not only hydrate your body but also your skin. Drinking water is probably the easiest thing you can do for your skin and overall health.
Just like food labels, you should get in the habit of reading product labels. Avoid products that aren’t alcohol or fragrance free. Alcohol and scents have the tendency to irritate your skin. When your skin is dry, it is very sensitive so buying something without either of these components will help tremendously.
Never skip your moisturizer. The best time to moisturize is when you get out of the shower. Though, it’s smart to use different moisturizers on your face throughout the day because they offer different benefits. A great trick for dry hands and feet is to lather them up with Vaseline or Aquaphor right before you go to bed. Cover them with an old pair of socks or gloves so you don’t grease up your sheets. By morning your skin will look and feel much less dry.
Don’t forget to exfoliate at least once a week. “You want some exfoliation to get the dead skin cells out of there, but you don’t want to be so aggressive that you irritate the skin,” says dermatologist David Bank, M.
D. For many skin types, exfoliating once a week should do the trick. Whether you’re using a handheld exfoliating device like a Clarisonic or a simple exfoliating face wash, remember to choose something that is alcohol and fragrance free.Don’t neglect your lips. Just like your face, you should exfoliate your lips once a week. If your lips tend to dry out, carry a tube of Chapstick in your purse to add moisture throughout the day.
Feature Photo via We Heart It