Do you suffer from dry, itchy skin, especially during the winter months? If so, you know how uncomfortable and even painful that can be. If you happen to have other skin issues like eczema, the freezing temps, blistery wind, and dry indoor air can make worsen your skin problems.
And now for the good news: you can do much more than treat the problem with various lotions. You can make the problem disappear, and now in a growing number of ways.
Here are a few good examples:
Moisturize wisely.
Some lotions claim to replenish and seal in your skin’s moisture. But many of their fragrances and other ingredients produce the opposite result. As such, avoid heavily scented moisturizers, body washes, and soaps; instead, opt for lotions made with natural oils that help restore your skin’s natural oils without clogging pores.
Hydrate your body from within.
Staying hydrated is important, no matter what the season. So, make sure to consume those eight glasses of water every day. At the same time, eat foods high in omega 3 and 6 to keep your skin, hair, and nails looking healthy and young.
Skip the long, hot bath.
As luxurious as it might feel to sink into a nice, hot bath, hot water will only further dry out your skin. Shorter showers and baths are better. Following your bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry, never scrub. Finally, while your skin is still slightly damp, apply a natural-oil based moisturizer all over, paying special attention to those problem areas like elbows, knees, and feet.
Protect Your Skin
Before going outdoors, put on gloves and a scarf to protect your skin from cold winds, rain, and snow. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as in the summer, so apply a safe option like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to any exposed areas.
And now for the best dry-skin prevention tip of all: contact Anthony’s Plumbing, Heating & Air can install a whole-house humidifier in your home. That way, you can maintain just the right level of relative humidity (about 40%) all season long. Your dry skin problems will improve or disappear, you’ll be less likely prone to upper respiratory problems, and you’ll pay less to heat your home. To learn more and schedule a free in-home consultation and new system quote, contact Anthony’s today.
