Winter Skincare Tips to Prevent Dry Skin
The winter season is here and no matter how you feel about it – it can bring some not so welcomed changes in your skin. The colder weather mixed with drops in humidity create the perfect environment for a common skin problem – dry skin! Many people encounter this in the colder months, and it’s not only uncomfortable but can lead to additional skin concerns.
Let’s review dry skin and what you can do to prevent it!
Why Is It Important to Treat Dry Skin?
First off, dry skin isn’t comfortable. It can be itchy, flaky, and cause painful cracking. It also leads to skin that looks and feels rough, and is ashy or red in appearance. Dry skin can really dull your complexion. And - excessive dryness can even lead to things like eczema and infections when the skin cracks and bleeds!
Dry skin is an indication that your skin barrier isn’t as strong and healthy as it could be. The skin barrier is your topmost layer of epidermis exposed to the elements. It protects you by keeping moisture in, and environmental pollutants, irritants, and allergens out! Taking steps to keep your skin barrier healthy is the first step in correcting dry skin.
What Causes Dry Skin?
Many factors can contribute to your dry skin. Here are some common culprits:
Age. Your pores produce less oil as you age, increasing your odds of experiencing dry skin.
Season. The fall and winter bring lower humidity levels. Less moisture in the air means your skin is more likely to dry out too.
Bathing Habits. Taking frequent, long hot showers or baths (or soaking in a hot tub) can dry out your skin.
Chemicals. Harsh soaps, laundry detergents, and cleaning products all strip oils from your skin. This includes spending time in pools and hot tubs.
Lifestyles Recommendations for Dry Skin
There are some steps you can implement in your daily life to prevent and improve your dry skin. These simple lifestyle adjustments make a big difference!
Use a humidifier in the winter.
Limit yourself to shorter showers – or try warm water instead of hot
Pat your skin when drying off after a shower to minimize the friction with your towel
Apply moisturizer right after bathing
Use fragrance-free detergents
Avoid wearing fabric that irritates your skin
Skincare Products for Dry Skin
Proper skincare is a key component of preventing and treating dry skin. Great products also help strengthen the skin barrier, to keep it healthy and youthful. Luckily, our favorite skincare line ZO Skin Health has some great products to do just that!
ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish - This product sloughs away dead skin cells to reveal smoother, softer skin. Dead skin cells tend to accumulate, especially when your skin is dry – leading to rough flaky patches, clogged pores, and an overall dull complexion. Use this product daily to reveal your new, healthy skin – making your complexion brighter and more radiant.
ZO Skin Health Daily Power Defense - this serum supports and strengthens the skin barrier, helping to lock moisture in.
ZO Skin Health Hydrating Crème – this powerful crème relieves dry skin, soothes irritation, and replenishes your skin’s natural moisture.
ZO Skin Health Recovery Crème – this product hydrates and nourishes severely dry, dehydrated skin.
Looking for some personalized guidance to treat your dry skin? We can help you at Polished MedSpa with a regime that will work best for you! Book an appointment with us today, or review our services to see how we can best help you achieve beautiful, hydrated skin!
XO, Lauren