Treating Dry Skin In The Winter
The colder months mean lots of bundling up, snowstorms, Christmas, and hot chocolate. Yet, these aren’t the only changes that happen in winter. People tend to notice changes in the body as well. Perhaps the most obvious is the appearance of dry skin, redness, and even cracked skin. The frosty winter air means there is less moisture available for absorption. Winter also calls for indoor heating and long hot showers, which dry out the skin. The skin also produces less oil and loses some ability to retain moisture in the winter. The best way to fight dry skin is to have an ironclad skincare routine.
Can moisturizers help?
To navigate winter dryness, doctors and dermatologists will recommend an effective skincare routine. This should consist of a cleanser, moisturizer, serum, and sunscreen. Moisturizers, in particular, are essential for preventing water loss and encouraging sebum production. Cleansers and serums also help hydrate by removing dead skin cells and adding nutrients to keep the skin healthy. Winter often requires switching from lotions to creams. These thicker products compensate for the lack of moisture while locking in existing hydration. While winter skincare products are crucial, all aren’t created equally. Products should have these 3 ingredients, at minimum, for the best results.
1. Packed with hyaluronic acid
At the top of the list is hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural compound made in the connective tissues, joints, and skin. The primary function of HA is to keep the joints lubricated and trap surrounding moisture to hydrate the skin. Over time, natural hyaluronic acid production decreases. Furthermore, the existing HA cannot work effectively if there is less moisture around. A moisturizer or serum containing hyaluronic acid keeps the skin hydrated and attracts whatever water is available.
2. Barrier restoration with ceramides
The skin’s barrier is comprised of several fats, with ceramides being the main compound. Doctors describe ceramides as the hydrating glue that keeps the border together. Without ceramides, the skin cannot seal in water or remove harmful toxins. Products with ceramides help prevent dryness, eczema, premature aging, and other unwanted skin conditions. More importantly, ceramides in moisturizers help restore a damaged skin barrier.
3. Squalane
Like ceramides, squalane gives the skin additional barrier support. Squalane is a variant of squalene, an essential oil that makes up sebum. The skin produces sebum as a natural moisturizer. However, this production can change with age or colder winter temperatures. Squalane comes from natural ingredients like olive oil and can reduce transepidermal water loss while providing more hydration.
Stay winter fresh
Using the right moisturizer is essential for soft, hydrated skin during the winter. Invest in a thicker lotion that will last longer and lock in more moisture. Avoiding long hot showers, using a humidifier, and applying sunscreen when outdoors also helps. Night creams containing occlusives also help restore moisture lost overnight. A dermatologist can narrow down the root cause if dry skin persists and recommend an appropriate treatment.
