Winter Skincare Do’s and Don’t’s

The arrival of winter makes some people fear that it’s going to suck the life out of their skin. Freezing temperatures can be harsh on the skin by making it dry, dull and dehydrated. Thankfully, that doesn’t have to be the case if you choose to follow a proper skincare regimen. The following winter skincare do’s and don’ts are designed to help keep your skin beautiful and healthy during the chilly winter season.

Do’s

• Drink lots of water. It is important to keep your body well-hydrated. It is the most effective treatment for dry skin which is very common during winter. Drink at least 8 glasses a day. If plain water is too boring for your taste, try adding some of your favorite fruits to come up with tasty water.
• Opt for a cleansing balm rather than a regular cleanser. They are more suited for winter use. Most cleansers are not designed for winter skin care and could be too harsh on the skin during the winter season.
• Keep your favourite moisturizer handy. The cold air will cause the skin to dry so always have a moisturizer ready. It is also helpful to use products that contain hyaluronic acid which is known to keep the skin hydrated.
• Wear sunscreen. Most people think there’s no need to use sunscreen during the winter season since there’s not as much sun to protect the skin from. While the sun may not be as strong in the winter as it is in summer, the UV rays are still there and can cause damage to your skin. Not wearing any sunscreen will just expose your skin to these harmful rays without you realizing it.
• Turn on the humidifier. The lack of moisture in winter air is the main reason why the skin gets dry and irritated. Using humidifiers helps make the air moister and therefore prevents the skin from becoming too dry.

Don’ts

• Don’t take long, hot showers. The heat will disrupt the skin’s oil barrier causing the skin to dry fast and become itchy.   
• Don’t over-exfoliate. Regular exfoliation is recommended to remove dead skin cells and reveal glowing skin. But too much exfoliation during the winter season will only irritate the skin. Scrubbing down is fine as long as you’re not overdoing it.
• Don’t use alcohol-based toners. Alcohol strips off moisture and will further dry your skin.
• Don’t cover dry skin with makeup. Exfoliation is a must prior to putting makeup on. If you skip this step, you’ll come up with a makeup look that is way too obvious. Start by scrubbing your face gently. Instead of your usual exfoliating products, try using a small soft cloth to rub the dry areas. Follow this with your moisturizer and then use your makeup. Follow these steps and you’re good to go.
• Don’t scratch your skin. No matter how itchy your dry skin is, avoid scratching it. Scratching will only make it worse. If the itch becomes persistent and unbearable, consult with your dermatologist for medical treatment.