5 Tips for Dealing with Winter Skin

woman bundled up to protect against winter skin

Snow. Sleet. Indoor heat. Have you noticed your skin is feeling or looking dry? And it’s just the start of winter! You need a plan and dedication to follow it to protect your skin. Here are five tips for dealing with winter skin.

1. Care for your face

The moisturizers you used all summer and even this fall probably won’t provide enough protection for your winter skin. This time of year, you don’t have to apply your moisturizer all at once. Instead, use a moisturizer that’s more effective for drier skin, and apply it more often. Although alcohol, alpha-hydroxy acids and benzoyl peroxide products have their place in skin care, they aren’t very good to use in winter months. Choose products that will keep your skin clean but not dried out. 

2. Body beautiful

Your body needs special attention in the winter. Soaps tend to dry your skin. Instead, use a moisturizing body wash. And avoid hot water since it can strip much needed moisture from your skin. After bathing, pat dry with a towel and apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp, which helps add moisture.

3. Hands up

We are still using lots of hand sanitizer, and they are all alcohol-based. That means the more you protect your hands from Covid-19, colds, flus, and such, the drier your hands may get. Dry, cracked hands can cause you lots of pain and discomfort. But there is a solution: Use moisturizer often — after washing your hands, using hand sanitizer, any time your hands feel dry. Also remember that every time you put on and take off your gloves, essential moisture gets stripped from your hands. I recommend you carry a small tube of moisturizer with you and use it often.

4. Drink more water

Staying hydrated is just as important in the cold weather as it is when it’s warm out. Hydration is your friend. It’s important to drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin well hydrated. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages because they contribute to dehydration. 

5. See us

If you’re still suffering from dry skin and are not able to get it under control, it’s time to see us. Many patients come in and, after an evaluation, it turns out they are suffering from skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, or a bacterial infection. Let us evaluate your skin condition and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

Here for your dermatological needs

I provide both medical and cosmetic dermatological services. Please feel free to contact us to make an appointment.