We all know that winter can be tough on skin. Caring for your skin in the presence of winter-related stresses is not just a matter of comfort – it also guards against potential problems, including skin infections. To keep your skin in good shape for the winter, American Academy of Dermatology has the following tips:Brief Bathes or showers in lukewarm – not hot water – To keep the moisture from leaching out of your skin
- Did you know that the real culprit is in your towel….not the water. Skin absorbs moisture while you bathe. Instead of rubbing your skin after your bath, it is better pat it gently or whisk off the water, leaving some moisture behind. Then, immediately apply a good moisturizer. If you use your towel briskly, it is like taking sandpaper to your skin, leaving it chaffed and dry.
2. Use mild soaps, avoiding deodorant soaps, which can be more drying.
3. Apply moisturizers to skin immediately after a bath or shower, and apply a cream, ointment, or lotion to trap water in the upper layers of skin to decrease drying and itching
4. Shave using lotion or hair conditioner instead of shaving foam.
5. Dab petroleum jelly on problem areas to seal in moisture and heal very dry skin.
Carol Clifton – Lipsense
