Changes in seasons are beautiful, but our skin may not enjoy it as much as we do. From low temperatures and dry air in the fall to allergies in the spring; from unbearable heat and humidity in the summer to frigid air in the winter; the list is endless.
Even before your skin gets used to challenges in one season, the next rolls around. Today we'll address how to navigate your skin through the winter.
Cold weather and low humidity contribute largely to dry skin. As the temperatures drop, our lips get drier and start to chap. Our skin is itchier and drier by the day. Our nails become more brittle.
Whether you lock yourself in warm rooms or walk outdoors in long-sleeved clothing, the winter chill will undoubtedly take a toll on your skin.
How exactly do the cold winter temperatures dry out your skin?
- Cold winter weather consists of very low humidity and dry air. These conditions rid your skin of moisture, leading to blotchiness, irritation, roughness to the touch, redness, and acne in some cases. Acne occurs because as the skin dries out, dead skin cells accumulate and clog pores.
- Cold weather tempts us to soak into hot bath water or take steaming showers. However, this harms the skin. Hot water is very drying, so it's best to take warm baths and showers and keep them short.
- As the days get colder, we tend to turn up the heat in our cars, homes, and offices. Hot air dehydrates our skin, causing itchiness.
All of these factors stress out your skin. Here are some tips to counteract winter's damage to your skin:
Sunscreen isn't just for summertime. Winter sun -- combined with snow glare -- can still damage your skin. Try applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands (if they're exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time.
The skin on your hands is thinner than on most parts of the body and has fewer oil glands. That means it's harder to keep your hands moist, especially in cold, dry weather. This can lead to itchiness and cracking. Wear gloves when you go outside; if you need to wear wool to keep your hands warm, slip on a thin cotton glove first, to avoid any irritation the wool might cause. Avoid wet gloves and socks. Wet socks and gloves can irritate your skin and cause itching, cracking, sores, or even a flare-up of eczema.
Running a humidifier can also help. Central heating systems (as well as space heaters) blow hot dry air throughout our homes and offices. Humidifiers get more moisture in the air, which helps prevent your skin from drying out and helps disperse the moisture more evenly.
Avoid super hot showers or baths. Soaking in a hot bath feels great after frolicking out in the cold. But the intense heat of a hot shower or bath actually breaks down the lipid barriers in the skin, which can lead to a loss of moisture. It's better to indulge in a shorter, warm shower or bath. If your skin is itchy and dry, a lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda, can help relieve skin that is so dry it has become itchy, So, too, can periodically reapplying moisturizer.
It's especially important in the dry winter months to moisturize our skin more. Why don't you try the all-natural hydrating moisturizer from Sole Toscana? We don't use any harsh chemicals, alcohol, or synthetic fragrances that cause and worsen dryness. Using natural, nourishing skincare products guarantees you soft, healthy moisturized skin.
With love,
The Sole Toscana Beauty Team
