Beat The Dry Skin

The winter months, of course, pose unique challenges and can create serious dry skin problems. Constantly switching between unnaturally dry indoor air, and the harsh cold and wind outdoors removes moisture from the skin. While creams and lotions replace some of that moisture, it is far better to take steps to prevent those losses in the first place.

Step1. Realize that the skin is a living organ, the body’s largest, not just a covering like the upholstery on your couch. General health rules regarding nutrition, proper rest and exercise all contribute to the overall health of the skin. But, there are some special that will help you avoid dry skin and stay healthy. Here are a few that are especially important during the colder months. First, keep well hydrated. This is probably easier to remember during summer, but is just as important in winter. In addition to eggnog and champagne, drink at least eight glasses of water a day. This keeps skin moisturized and flushes toxins out of your body. Next, use sun block. Although skin is less exposed in winter, ultraviolet rays can be particularly intense on clear winter days. Even when cloudy, UV rays still penetrate. If you go skiing, UV exposure is even greater. Bottom line; use a good sunscreen that blocks both types of ultraviolet radiation - UVA and UVB.
Step2. Keep out the chemicals. Your skin wasn’t designed to deal with dish soap, bleach, hair coloring and thousands of other everyday chemicals that can cause dry skin. Many common cleaners and solvents specify the wearing of gloves. Always follow such advice. Even products that don’t require gloves can still suck the oils and moisture out of the skin, leaving it dry, cracked and irritated. This even applies to antibacterial soap.
Step3. Use gentle cleansers on the face. The face is more delicate than other parts of the body and deserves special treatment.
Step4. Get rid of dead skin. Most “dry skin” is actually skin that is ready to fall off. Exfoliation, therefore, should be part of your regular routine. Use a washcloth when washing your face and then work up to something like a loofa if you can. Exfoliation helps moisturizers and other skin care products do a better job. By exfoliating before you apply moisturizer, it isn’t blocked by dead cells.
By..............
Dr. Peter Helton, board certified dermatologist