While it may not be officially winter as I am writing this, that doesn't matter to my skin. My skin is already feeling the effects from the cold air. I'm sure I'm not the only one experiencing irritated and flaky skin now that it is closer to freezing more days than not. I've had to quickly examine some of my habits to help my skin look smooth and healthy. Here are some things that help me beat the dry and flaky skin that comes in the winter.
Drink Enough Water
Many of us associate needing to stay hydrated with the warmer months, but it's just as important during the colder months too. During the colder months we rely on our heating systems to keep us warm cozy. While we are eternally grateful for the technology that makes this possible, heating systems often push out dry air that can be partly to blame for our dry and chapped skin. Drinking enough water helps to combat this. You don't have to drink a gallon of water to see benefits. Just aim to get 8 cups of water.
Eat (Healthy) Fatty Foods
Another thing that will help your skin stay hydrated is eating a fair amount of healthy fats. That's because Omega-3s and other healthy fats are essential for healthy skin. Try to add avocados, fatty fish (like salmon) and nuts and seeds. Consider cooking primarily with olive oil or coconut oil
Use Rich Lotions
If you have dry skin, chances are you're already using lotions. But not all lotions are made the same. Dermatologists agree that the best lotions have:
ceramides,
essential fatty acids,
a combination of Glycerin, glycols and polyols
sodium PCA.
or a combination of any of the above. Be sure to check out your lotion to see if it's working for your dry skin.
Avoid Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic Fibers, like acrylic and rayon, don't wick away moisture and allow skin to become irritated meaning not only do these fibers cause dry skin but irritate it further. Try to wear natural fibers like cotton, cashmere, linen, silk and hemp. Wool, while natural, can also irritate your skin. When wearing wool or synthetic fibers wear a cotton layer underneath it.