Winter Skin Care Tips-Part 2

Posted: March 2nd, 2020

( Con’t from February Blog)

Embrace Healthy Skin—Body Care
    There are fewer sebaceous glands on the surface of your body than on your face, so skin on your body is naturally drier than facial skin. Since breakouts are not usually a problem for legs and arms, feel free to indulge in the creamiest and heaviest lotions to re-hydrate.  
    Use a mild laundry detergent and limit the use of bleach on clothing and bedding. Also, shave using lotion or hair conditioner instead of shaving foam. Individuals should avoid long, hot baths which can dry the skin–take tepid showers instead. Reduce how often you bath or shower too. 
     The best way to keep the skin healthy is to moisturize. Using a moisturizing body wash during the shower and applying moisturizers to the skin afterwards, can help trap water in the upper layers of the skin and decrease dryness and itching. After showering or bathing, pat your skin with a terry cloth towel. Avoid rubbing the skin as this causes further irritation. 
    When choosing a moisturizer, check product labels and look for lotions and creams containing any of the following emollient-packed ingredients:  shea butter, petrolatum, mineral oil, linoleic acid, ceramides, dimethicone, or glycerin. 

Lotions vs. Creams
    Moisturizers contain two basic types of ingredients:Humectants, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea and sorbitol, which work by attracting water molecules to the skin; Emollients, like mineral oil, shea butter, and petroleum, work by softening the skin forming a protective layer on top, sealing in water. Lightweight lotions (good for normal to oily skin) contain more humectants, while heavier creams (good for dry, flaky skin) have more emollients. Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy. The drier the skin, the thicker this should be, especially on the hands. 
    When your skin is winter-flaky and scaly, it’s a good idea to use an exfoliant 2 to 3 times-a-week on your body but not on your face. Exfoliants are really the only products that get rid of layers of dry, dead skin from places like the elbows, knees and heels. Look for an exfoliant with super-hydrating ingredients. 

Run Away from Dry Skin—Foot Care
    Feet need special attention and there are specific products available. The skin is rough and calloused, so you’re looking for an intense hydration product that also exfoliates dead skin off. Use a pumice stone while showering to help exfoliate rough, dry skin. 
   We hope that these tips will help promote and maintain healthy skin as the temperature plummets. If you develop severely dry skin, eczema, or “winter itch,” see your dermatologist. 

Source: American Academy of Dermatology