Get Silky, Smooth Skin All Winter Long

Many people struggle with dry, chapped and irritated skin throughout the winter months thanks to the cold temperatures and dry air. Everyone wants to be able to maintain the healthy, glowing skin they have the rest of the year when the weather is warmer but this tends to be a challenge for most people. When you head outside, the cold air lacks the moisture that is present in the summer months. Inside, warm temperatures provided by furnaces and other heat supplies make the environment even drier. It takes effort in order to maintain silky, smooth skin all winter long, but the good news is that it can be done with a great skincare routine.

Exfoliate

When your skin is dry it is extra important to exfoliate in the shower. When dry skin builds up this can prevent moisture from getting into the skin where you need the hydration most. This can cause a flare up of a number of skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris and eczema. Maybe opt for a moisturizing scrub that will get rid of dead cells but help nourish your skin.

Avoid Harsh Products

If you are someone that struggles with dry, cracked hands throughout the winter you might want to stay away from harsh soaps and hand sanitizers that will only make your problem worse. Instead, if you want to keep germs away, use a moisturizing hand soap to clean. Also, try to stay away from antibacterial body washes that can really dry out your skin.

Slather On The Lotion

Find a good quality lotion or moisturizer that you can use all over your body and throughout the winter months. If you have problem skin, go light with the lotion on your face and pick a product that will not clog pores. Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that you can use all over your body. It stays on all day and helps keep your skin smooth and silky all winter. If you have very dry skin and it won’t bother you, you can opt for a skin oil which is much thicker and will moisturize better.

Don’t Forget Those Toes

While you might not be heading out in sandals anytime soon, don’t forget about your feet. After your shower when you skin is softer, you can use a pumice stone or file to whisk away dead skin. Then, slather in lotion and put some socks on before bed. This results in smoother, healthier looking feet.

Keep Showers To A Minimum

When it is time to hop in the shower in the morning or evening, try not to overdo it with the temperature. The hotter the water is, the more you will dry out your skin and irritate it. Also, as a rule of thumb, try not to stay in the shower for longer than five to ten minutes. While it feels good to warm up in the shower after coming in from the cold, it can be terrible for your skin.

The winter may seem long but the good news is that before long, the temperatures will be warming up and you will struggle less with your dry skin. There are plenty of products and techniques that can be used at home and at the spa or salon to help your skin stay healthy and glowing.