If you haven’t committed to any new year’s resolutions yet, how about taking better care of your skin? Winter is the ideal time to adopt a good daily skincare routine and better understand how the environment around you affects your skin.
The winter season often creates dry and uncomfortable skin. Proper skincare during colder months includes avoiding irritants (see our list below), keeping hydrated and effectively replenishing moisture through the use of moisturizers (body, face & lip).
Be aware of environmental elements that can cause dryness and irritation, such as:
- Colder temperatures
- Harsh winds
- Water loss/dehydration
- Indoor heat
- Hot water
- Sunshine
- Harsh products, i.e. astringent and deodorant soaps
If you have a skin condition or disorder like psoriasis, eczema, icthyosis (dry, thickened, scaly skin) and kertosis pilaris (rough bumpy skin), you already know that it can worsen in the colder, drier air.
DRY SKIN SOLUTIONS
Rich moisturizing creams are essential for combating dry skin. Apply body cream daily, ideally after a shower. Ensure you apply moisturizers at least 15 minutes before going outside so that the product can be properly absorbed into the skin.
And don’t forget to protect your hands—since the skin is thinner here, hands are prone to dryness in the winter. Treat them to a moisturizing hand creme and wear gloves when you go outside.
Two great products we recommend for dry skin and specific skin conditions are:
- La Roche-Posay ISO-UREA Body Milk for very dry, rough skin and ideal for psoriasis, icthyosis and kertosis pilaris. Non-greasy, this product smoothes the skin and reinforces the skin barrier for protection. It contains urea, shea butter and glycerine to moisturize; and bisabolol to soothe.
- La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume for very dry, irritated skin. A lipid-replenishing balm that stops the itching, it’s perfect for eczema and dry, cracked hands and feet. Suitable for babies & children and adults.