As seasons change, our skin care requirements also undergo alterations. Fluctuations in temperature, exposure to the sun, and humidity levels directly impact the health of our skin. Our skincare regimen should be adapted to provide continuous protection throughout the year. During the summer months, the presence of high temperatures, humidity, and extended sun exposure necessitates the use of gentle cleansers, broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 or 50, along with lightweight moisturisers.
Winter season comes with colder temperature with less moisture , low humidity and harsh winds that makes the skin dry and damage the skin’s protective layer. This can result in various skin conditions, including flakiness, itching, redness, and a compromised skin barrier. Existing skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can flare up and cause discomfort. Additionally, the colder weather causes the blood vessels in the skin to constrict which reduces blood flow, resulting in dullness and paleness. As the colder months approach, our skin necessitates increased care and attention. The most effective strategy to address these skin concerns is to modify your skincare routine to prioritise thick moisturisers and deep hydration. Here a few tips to achieve healthy and glowing skin during winters:
HYDRATING CLEANSERS:
Winter air has low humidity which draws moisture from our skin leading to tightness of skin, making it quite uncomfortable. Switch to a deep moisturising cleanser to wash your face. Look for a cream based or foaming cleansers with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid , ceramides and panthenol that help the skin lock in moisture and avoid cleansers with ingredients like sulphates because they strip skin of moisture. Hydrating cleansers remove dirt and impurities from the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
SHOWER WITH LUKEWARM WATER:
Hot water showers in winter may feel amazing but they also dry and irritate the skin as hot water can strip your skin of its essential oils which keeps our skin naturally moisturised. Excess hot water showers can also damage keratin cells from the outermost layer of skin, making it hard for skin to retain moisture. A better alternative is to shower with lukewarm water as it gently cleanses the skin without causing dryness and maintains the skin’s pH balance. Lukewarm water is also considered the perfect temperature as it doesn’t shock the skin as cold water or cause dryness or inflammation like hot water.
LIFESTYLE HABITS:
Diet and other lifestyle habits also play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our skin. Adopting a balanced diet and incorporating a comprehensive skincare routine can significantly contribute to achieving healthy and radiant skin. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, seeds, nuts, avocados (which are rich in vitamin E), citrus fruits, dark chocolate and leafy vegetables, contribute to maintaining skin hydration, supporting collagen production, and protecting the skin from damage.
Hydrate yourself with plenty of water, warm drinks like warm water with lemon, amla juice and herbal teas. Proper hydration helps skin’s natural protective barrier function properly and make the skin stay supple and plump. Drinking plenty of water will also flush out toxins.
During the winter months, it is crucial to engage in regular physical exercise and maintain a level of physical activity. This can be achieved through various activities, such as walking, Yoga, Jogging, or Strength training. Exercise increases blood flow, which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting their health and vitality. Additionally, physical activity serves as an effective stress reliever, as stress can worsen skin conditions.
All of above mentioned lifestyle habits will significantly help your skin feel healthy during winter.
HUMIDIFIERS:
During the winter months, the air tends to be drier. Using a humidifier can be beneficial for the skin, as it helps to reduce the rate of moisture evaporation. The added moisture from the humidifier will soothe the skin.
THICK MOISTURIZER AND A GOOD SUNSCREEN:
Use a thick and creamy moisturiser during the day as well as night to effectively hydrate the skin during the winter months, incorporating ingredients such as ceramides, shea butter, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Ceramides enhance hydration by repairing the skin’s barrier, while hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant, drawing water molecules from both the air and within the skin. Notably, it possesses a unique ability to retain 1000 times its weight in water, effectively locking in moisture and hydrating the skin. Shea butter, rich in emollients and fatty acids, forms a protective barrier on the skin, ensuring moisture retention. Its rapid absorption into the skin provides deep nourishment. Glycerin, another humectant, further contributes to maintaining skin hydration and health throughout the challenging winter months.
Apply a nice broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50 along with your moisturiser in the day as UV rays are still strong in the winter. Sunscreen should be used all year around to prevent skin from premature ageing and dark spots.
BODYCARE:
After showering with lukewarm water, ensure that you moisturise your body with a rich body lotion while the skin is slightly damp. This helps to retain the water on the skin’s surface, allowing the lotion to lock in moisture for a longer period, resulting in lasting hydration.
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