Here are a few tips to make sure your skin stays healthy during the coldest months of the year.

1. Avoid alcohol based skin products such as toners and face masks. These products dry out your skin.
2. Keep your skin covered! When outside, wear gloves/mittens and earmuffs to protect your hands and ears. Dress warm and comfortably. If clothing including gloves/mittens get wet, change into dry clothing right away!
3. Don’t use extremely hot water in the shower or tub. While a hot shower or bath may feel good on a cold day, the hot water actually breaks down the oils and lipids in your skin, which could lead to severe dryness and discomfort. Try to stick with lukewarm water. You can add oatmeal or baking soda but avoid bubble bath and other products that tend to dry out the skin. Don’t forget to moisturize after your showers and baths, as your pores open up and take in the moisture quicker with longer lasting effects.
4. Always keep your skin hydrated. Having “hydrated” skin is another way of saying that your skin is moisturized. Keeping your skin moisturized can help prevent painful cracking and peeling of the skin, especially when your skin is exposed to cold temperatures. To ensure the best results for your skin, use lotion before enduring the cold outside and then again when you come inside.
5. Sunscreen isn’t just for summertime. When planning to be outside, whether walking, skiing, sledding etc., the American Academy of Dermatologist suggests that you to apply a sunscreen with an SPF value of 30 or more (15 minutes before you go outside) to protect against broad spectrum UVA & UVB rays that can cause skin cancer. Use a lip balm with SPF too.
6. Look for fragrance-free lotions with humectants or ingredients such as: Glycerine, sorbital, and alpha hydroxyl acid, which are products that attract moisture. You don’t have to spend a lot of money-just look for basic products with these ingredients.

Lastly, if your skin is still dry after improving your skin care regime, make an appointment with your health care provider or dermatologist (skin expert). I hope these tips will make the cold winters more bearable for you; at least you know you have protected your skin.

-Jessica