Winterizing Your Skin…
The weather is changing to cold, windy and drying temperatures that can wreak havoc on your skin. The winter months can cause the skin to lose moisture and even chap or crack, which eventually can lead to infections of the skin as well as pain. I do not know anyone who does not experience extra dry skin during this time. What is worse is that the skin becomes drier when we age. Because it is such a common problem, it is not only important to keep your skin smooth and supple by moisturizing it but trying to retain this moisture. Dryness can result from any number of things that remove water from the skin. Simple daily routines, such as bathing, towel drying, hot water, and using the wrong products can make your skin even worse. Use the list below as a good guideline this winter and throughout the year. Your skin will thank you for it!
Guidelines for healthy moisturized skin:
- Use lukewarm water when you bathe and limit bathing for 10 minutes or less, no more than one time a day. Bathing frequently strips the natural oils from the skin, whichincreases dryness.
- Wash with a moisture-containing soap, sensitive skin soap or a non-soap cleanser such as Cetaphil, CeraVe, Basis, Olay and Dove. Even better is our DCL Non-Drying Cleansing Lotion!
- Deodorant soaps can be too harsh and drying. If they are needed, limit their use to the underarms, genital area and feet. Avoid the use of astringents or alcohol-based products.
- If you like to use bath oil, add it to the water after, not before, you’ve soaked for a minute or two. Your skin will have absorbed some water already, and the oil will seal it in.
- Always apply a moisturizer after bathing. Pat yourself dry and apply moisturizer while the skin is still moist. Moisturizers must be used daily to maintain their effects. If your skin is very dry, apply the moisturizer at bedtime as well.
- Good moisturizers are so thick that they do not pour out of a bottle. Examples include Eucerin cream, Cetaphil cream, CeraVe cream, Aquaphor and Vaseline Petroleum. We have several brands available in our office, which are even more effective.
- Any areas exposed to the sun should be protected with an additional layer of sunblock. Even during the winter months.
- When you are doing laundry, use detergents such as “All-free”, “Tide-free” or “Cheer-free”. Liquid fabric softeners can be used, but refrain from using dryer sheets. Avoid clothing made of irritating “scratchy” fabrics or wool. Use cotton percale on your bed.
- Humidify your home in the winter, or year round if you live in a dry climate. A constant temperature of 68-75*F with humidity at 45-55% is best.
- Remember to keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
If the above guidelines still do not improve your dry skin, then it is time to see a specialist because it could mean a more serious condition. Our team at Pinski Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, S.C. is here to help. Please do not hesitate to call our office for an appointment. Have a wonderful moisturized winter season.
Renata M. Block, MMS, PA-C