30 November 2017 Tweet  

Caring for Problem Skin this Winter

As humidity and temperatures drop in winter, the battle for healthy skin begins. Dry and cold air saps away the thin layer of oil that traps moisture in the skin. This can flare itchy and painful conditions like severe dry skin, eczema, psoriasis etc. Here are some tips to keep your skin healthy and problem-free this winter......

Shower Time : Take shorter showers in winter as the water will dry out the skin further. Always use luke warm water for shower-avoid hot water showers. Hot water feels very good on dy itchy skin in winter, but it really dries up the skin by removing natural oils which keep the skin soft and hydrated.

Scrub no more : Use mild , PH balanced bodywashes for shower, with no or minimal fragrance. Avoid using loofahs, scrubs and rubbing skin as this further dries up skin. Gently pat dry skin and use a moisturizer immediately on damp skin as this helps to trap moisture in the skin.

Moisturize & Moisturize : Persons suffering from eczema, proriasis or xerosis (excessive dry skin) need to re-apply moisturizing creams and lotions several times a day to calm the irritated skin. The thicker the creams or ointments, the better they are at locking water into your skin.

Be Comfortable : Always wear loose, cotton, comfortable clothes-woollen clothing may irritate the already sensitive skin. Persons with hands and feet eczema (dry, itchy, peeling skin with cracks) may benefit from wearing cotton gloves and cotton socks.

Humidify : Use a humidifier to place moisture in the air. This can keep skin from drying and becoming cracked and itchy.

Eat Healthy : Have a diet rich in vitamins, nutrients, antioxidants and omega 3 such as brightly coloured and fresh fruits , vegetables, nuts , fish etc to keep your skin soft, supple and strong, all season through. Adopt a healthy lifestyle which includes good sleep, exercise and relaxation techniques to keep your stress as minimal as possible as stress is a known trigger for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.