Here’s How to Beat Those Winter Skin Woes

We have had our first (and second, and third) white days of winter already, and that can mean more of us are also dealing with the dreaded dry skin of winter. It is now when we can benefit from a few simple strategies to offset the natural decline of humidity in the air. Here, we offer a few suggestions to go above and beyond those you may have already heard.

Generally, the skin care advice given during the winter months includes taking shorter showers and ones that are not too hot. Really though, who can resist a steamy shower or bath when the temperature outside is downright frigid? We get it even if we can’t totally get behind that habit. The fact of the matter is, hot water, even though it’s wet, will dry out your skin. So will the indoor heat we all rely on for comfort. So what is one to do?

Prepare Your Skin for Moisture

One of the biggest mistakes that people make with their skin is leaving it alone too long. The body is supposed to accommodate cellular renewal by naturally sloughing off the uppermost layer of dead and damaged skin cells, but this usually doesn’t happen as thoroughly as it should. When the stratum corneum is not periodically exfoliated, the moisturizing products your skin desperately needs cannot get absorbed.

Exfoliation is a must during winter and can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. In our Westerville office, some people choose to come in monthly for a gentle chemical peel or microdermabrasion. Others schedule less frequent treatments that remove a more substantial layer of the epidermis. A consultation with our experienced team can help you discover the best way to prepare your skin for future pampering.

Pay Attention to Ingredients

You may have heard that you should change up your skin care routine with the seasons, but what does that look like in real life? One of the best suggestions we can offer is to have your skin assessed by a professional who can then recommend medical-grade cleansers, serums, and moisturizers to meet your particular needs. In the meantime, store those lightweight lotions and moisturizers for summer and fill your medicine cabinet with emollient creams and products that contain hyaluronic acid. This carbohydrate compound is known for adhering to water molecules. It is not absorbed by the skin, but sits on top, making it ideal for layering with a hydrating serum.

Your Westerville dermatologist has solutions to help you sail through the winter months with glowing, supple skin. Call 614-895-0400 to schedule a visit with us.