How to Care for Skin During Winter

By eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

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The winter months are hard on your skin. The constant cold temperatures, wind, snow and ice zap moisture from your skin causing rough, chafed and cracked patches. Follow these steps to prevent skin problems and care for your skin during winter.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1
Use a humidifier throughout the winter. Skin gets dryer when the air gets dryer, so keeping adequate moisture in the air helps skin, hair and your throat from being too dry.
Step2
Use a milder cleanser instead of soap, which is harsh and dries skin. Look for a cleanser made with moisturizers or Aloe Vera.
Step3
Moisturize frequently. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing or showering to lock in moisture, concentrating on knees, elbows, hands and feet. Also wear sunscreen, even in winter—especially when skiing. Many moisturizing lotions also include a sunscreen.
Step4
Dress appropriately for winter, in warm layered clothing. Wear gloves to keep your hands safe from wind and cold, which chafes and dries out skin. Shed any wet clothing and shoes immediately.
Step5
Drink lots of water, at least eight 8 oz. glasses per day. Eat warm cooked foods and drink warm teas.
Step6
Exercise regularly to increase circulation, especially in the winter when people generally spend more time indoors out of the cold.
Step7
See a dermatologist if skin gets extremely dry or if you develop eczema.

Tips & Warnings

  • Apply lotion to feet and hands and wear socks and gloves to bed to seal moisture into your rough skin.
  • Exfoliate weekly to slough dry dead skin away.
  • Avoid long hot baths in winter as they can dry out skin. Use lukewarm water instead and limit the amount of time you spend bathing.
  • Avoid licking your lips and use a lip balm to keep them from cracking and bleeding.

Comments

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on 11/7/2007 good, useful tips. I felt I could really use these ideas. thanks!

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eHow Article:  How to Care for Skin During Winter

eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

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