In the middle of winter, temperatures are sometimes bitterly cold.  We take one step outside and want to walk right back inside.  Colder temperatures bring drier air and potentially sandpaper-like skin.  Keeping skin moisturized in winter is a constant battle for many.  Try these helpful tips to keep your skin soft and smooth during the coldest days of the year.

1.  Avoid HOT Water.  We mean HOT water.  It’s easy to get caught up in a long, hot shower during cold weather.  Taking long hot showers strips natural oil, fats, and proteins from your skin, leading to dry and itchiness.  Long hot showers can potentially lead to eczema also.  It is recommended to take showers at 98.6 degrees or lukewarm water.

2.  Lotion, Lotion, Lotion.  After every bath, shower, or hand washing, use moisturizing lotion to keep your skin soft and smooth.

3.  Drink More Water.  Keeping your body hydrated will keep your skin from drying out.  To avoid dry, itchy skin and dehydration in the winter, drink more water than is recommended.  Also, drinking tea or broth-based soups and eating high water volume vegetables increases hydration in the body.

4.  Humidify your Home.  Consider adding a home humidifier to increase moisture.  Home humidifiers add moisture to the dry air making your home feel warmer and your skin softer.

5.  Skincare Update.  The same skincare products you use in the summer may not handle drier air in the winter.  Consider adding or changing to a facial moisturizer that is ultra-hydrating.

6.  Soft Water in the Home.  Like calcium and magnesium, minerals in hard water can cause the skin to lose moisture.  Hard water amplifies dry, itchy skin in cold temperatures.  If your home does not have a water softener, consider one.  They do more than keep your skin soft and smooth.

You’re practicing a healthier lifestyle by drinking more water and keeping your skin healthy by following these tips.  If you have any questions about your water and how it can help your skin, reach out to us or call us at 815-385-3093.