Colder temperatures can have an adverse effect on your skin, causing chapping, dryness and soreness.
In this post, we’re going to give you some tips for skin care in winter at home and when you are out and about.
Follow them for nourished and pampered skin, even when temperatures plummet.
Invest in a humidifier
Winter air can affect your skin, as it can be drier and colder. So investing in a humidifier in your home or working environment can help counteract this effect.
This will restore moisture to the air, helping your skin to keep hydrated and comfortable.
Some people find the easiest way to use a humidifier is to leave it on in their bedroom overnight.
Just make sure you clean your humidifier regularly using a solution of detergent and water or distilled white vinegar to keep it fresh.
Keep it cool and comfy
It’s tempting to dial up the temperature when you get in from the cold. But having it set too high will only dry your skin out more.
Try keeping the internal temperature of your home within the 20 to 24 degrees Celsius range to keep your skin hydrated.
The same goes for your water temperature. Piping hot showers or baths can result in dry skin in winter, so make sure you keep the temperature comfortable and don’t linger in there too long!
Choose moisturising hygiene products
Most of us are in a great hand hygiene routine these days, following the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
But using harsh products can dry out your skin — so why not choose moisturising hand sanitiser and soap instead?
Our hand sanitiser enriched with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E not only kills germs and bacteria but also leaves your skin supple and moisturised, making it perfect for the winter months.
You may also like to try our hand sanitiser with aloe vera, a natural ingredient that moisturises and soothes inflammation.
Eat well and drink plenty
It stands to reason that if you keep hydrated from the inside, your skin will reap the benefits.
Government guidelines say that men should aim for around 10 cups (2.6 litres) of non-alcoholic fluid a day, while women should drink around 8 cups (2.1 litres).
What you eat also has an effect on your hydration levels. Avoid sugary and processed foods and try to eat whole foods, including a variety of fruit and vegetables, to get the nutrients your skin needs to stay healthy.
Pamper your skin
It’s more important than ever to pamper your skin in winter. Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and avoid dry and flaky patches.
Exfoliation also stimulates collagen production, increasing elasticity and helping your skin to appear plump and hydrated.
Use a rich and creamy moisturiser on your face and body too, which will not only hydrate your skin but also form a protective barrier against the elements.
And don’t forget your lips — use a lip balm daily to stop them from getting dry and cracked.
Treat dry, itchy skin
Some people find that their skin gets both dry and itchy during colder weather.
This could be due to a number of different conditions, such as dermatitis or eczema. Both of these conditions can get worse during the winter when your skin is exposed to the elements and you spend time in dry, overheated environments.
You can take care of dry, itchy skin in winter by:
- Wearing gloves for housework to protect skin from detergents
- Showering immediately after swimming in water treated with chlorine, which can irritate the skin
- Adding oats to your bathwater — they contain anti-inflammatory qualities that will soothe your skin
- Moisturising your skin daily — look for products that contain lanolin or mineral oils, which will lock in moisture
- Consulting your doctor if you are concerned about your skin
Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Last but not least, don’t forget to keep applying sunscreen.
It’s still possible for your skin to burn in winter, especially if you are fair-skinned.
And sunscreen also gives you protection against UV (ultraviolet) rays, which can damage skin cells. This can lead to ageing of the skin and, in some cases, skin cancer.
Use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 to block those harmful rays.
Be kind to your skin this winter
Your skin is extra vulnerable in cold temperatures, so make sure you get into a good care routine to keep it supple, healthy and looking great this winter.
You can find gentle hand sanitisers, along with many other products, to enhance your health and well-being in our online shop.
Know that at FeverMates, our mission is to keep you and your family healthy — all year round!