Ways to Protect Your Skin during the Cold ...

I love this time of the year, when there is a wonderful nip in the air. But winter also tends to play havoc with my skin leading to dry, flaky skin and chapped lips. Here are a few tips that I have tried myself that will help you keep your skin hydrated and glowing through winter.

Moisturize:
Moisturize, moisturize and then moisturize some more. The best time to moisturize is after a shower as your skin absorbs moisture better. Try applying a little moisturizer to your skin, at least half an hour before your shower. It works wonders. Carry a little bottle of moisturizer in your bag to make sure you can touch up your face and hands every few hours. And make sure before you hit the sack, your face and body is well moisturized.

Sunscreen:
So who said sunscreen is only for the summers? Winter might have its share of dull skies, but that does not exempt you from using sunscreen. Mix your sunscreen with your moisturizer and apply it; alternatively buy a combined sunscreen & moisturizing product. Make sure you reapply every few hours especially if you are going to be outside.

Exfoliate:
Dry skin tends to accumulate dead cells much faster. A good body scrub and a facial exfoliate can help remove dead skills from your body. Make sure you use a loofah while bathing. Ensure that you moisturize after exfoliating.

Hot Water showers:
Are a strict No No! Hot water robs skin of moisture, so it’s best to stick to lukewarm water.

Eat Right:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and some amount of nuts to make sure your skin is supplied with enough nutrients to keep it supple and glowing. Include moderate amounts of olive oil as it helps with skin health.

Water:
Drink lots of water. It is very important to drink at least 2 liters of water everyday, since it hydrates your skin from within. Water plays a huge role in keeping your skin alive and retaining the moisture as well as keeping skin disorders at bay. Herbal tea is also great. Try green tea since it not only supplies anti-oxidants to your skin, but is known to aid weight loss.

Lip Balm:
There is nothing more ugly that chapped, dry lips. Yuck! This winter, invest in a good lip balm. Carry one with you and reapply at regular intervals. Also don’t keep licking your lips to moisturize them. It will dry them out more. Use a gentle exfoliating brush over them once a week to get rid of any dead skin.

Products:
Switch to good quality products with more nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E or nut oils and with added vitamins and anti-oxidants to help your skin cope with the changing temperatures. Avoid soap as it may dry skin further. Instead switch to a gentle face cleanser.

Hands, Legs and Nails:
These need extra care during winters. Use special moisturizers and try immersing your hands and legs in warm water to which a few drops of oil have been added, every few days.

Good Luck!