Although the autumn season has just arrived, it won’t be long until the winter months set in.
Chapped lips and dry skin are synonymous with cold weather.
In fact, winter is considered skin’s second “worst enemy,” with the sun being the first.
Protecting Your Skin
As weather conditions change, it’s important to modify your skin care routine to protect your skin from bitter winter conditions.
Consider the following recommendations offered by the Chiropractors at AICA Tucker for how to keep a healthy glow all winter long!
Avoid Hot Showers– Long hot baths and showers are inviting during the winter, but they actually can result in more damage to your skin. Intense temperatures break down the lipid barrier, which dries out the skin.
Instead, use lukewarm water for a shorter length of time and always use a moisturizer after. To relieve itchily, dry skin, try a warm bath with baking soda or oatmeal.
Dress for Success– Protecting your skin from the bitter winter elements is most effective with the appropriate attire. Dress warmly and in layers with dry gloves, socks, hats, and scarves.
Damp clothing can irritate the skin, causing eczema or sores.
Magnify your Moisturizer– The cold, dry autumn air dehydrates your skin, so it’s important to moisturize often and with a richer balm.
The skin on your hands is thin with few oil glands; therefore dense shea butter should be applied to keep them moist. As for your feet, look for lotions with glycerin or petroleum jelly and exfoliate skin regularly.
Pamper your Face– Use oil-based moisturizers on your face to prevent clogged pores. These varieties also have a higher concentration of antioxidants and fatty acids to nourish, heal and regenerate your skin.
It’s important to use alcohol- cleansers instead of harsh astringents and peels. Clay-based masks have a tendency to draw moisture out, so use masks that are “deeply hydrating.”
Plug in a Humidifier– As you increase the heat in your home, you are also decreasing the humidity levels. An absence of moisture in your home can lead to dry skin, nose, and throat and increase your susceptibility to colds and respiratory infections.
Humidifiers are a perfect solution, as they increase the amount of moisture in the air and create a comfortable living environment.
Use Sunscreen– Sun protection is just as important during the winter months as it is during the summer months. Snow magnifies sunlight, causing damage to any visible skin.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply regularly if you are outside for extended periods of time. After-sun treatments are also necessary to reduce signs of aging skin. Argan oil, apricot oil, and wild musk rose oil are excellent options.
Learn more from AICA Tucker
The Chiropractors at AICA Tucker treat hundreds of women each year for various conditions and can offer guidance around a plethora of health topics like skin care.
You can schedule a consultation with our Tucker office by filling out our online submission form or by calling us at 404-592-1186.