How to Combat Dry Skin During the Winter
If you’ve ever struggled with dry, flakey skin and need someone to talk to about it, pull up a chair next to me, my dear. I have struggled with eczema since I was born. I suffer from year-round flare ups triggered by allergens, dehydration, and poor life habits. Dry skin is an issue I am always learning more about. Thanks to cold, dry hair and central heat, we’re in the middle of the hardest time of year for dry skin. Here are a few ways you can have a fighting chance against dry skin:
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Argan Oil
Argan oil is one of the most complete moisturizers with vitamins A and E. It’s hard to find those that are the real deal and avoid scents–they flare up my skin. I’ve been using Actually Organic for the past month on my hands and face. I put it on my face before makeup to avoid flakes and on my hands to repair the dry patches. I mix it with my body lotion for the really rough days.
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Exfoliate
Your oils, lotions, and masks can’t get to the skin that needs their magical powers if a layer of dead skin is in the way. Make sure you exfoliate your body and face. I recently picked up these NuFace Prep-N-Glow face wipes. One side is for exfoliating and the other is softer for makeup removal. Put your face oil on right after when your face is still damp to lock in moisture.
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Sleep
It’s called beauty sleep for a reason. The science shows that both our minds and bodies regenerate while we slumber. When we don’t get enough sleep, the less hydrated our skin is. When you don’t sleep enough, your skin’s pH levels drop and prevent your skin from producing the moisture it needs. This makes it look dry and red. Invest in bed-time routines and scheduling to make sure you get to sleep quickly and have enough time for 7 hours.
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Avoid sugar and alcohol
I have a sweet tooth and an appetite for a good party. I keep my skin in mind when I need a little extra help abstaining. Both alcohol and sugar increase inflammation (ie: red, itchy skin) and decrease hydration. This hurts in the long run: “Inflammation produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles,” according to a Huffinton Post article.
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Hydrate
There may be no better way to prevent dryness than to increase your water intake. My man doesn’t call me “Lady Liquid” for nothing. I drink so much water I’ve practically become addicted. It’s been a key to managing my eczema for decades. Not only does it keep me hydrated, but helps my body get rid of toxins and other things that irritate my skin. I want to take it up a level by infusing my water more often. I used to do that during my single years…
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Face masks
If you need a quick fix that can also lead to long-term results, invest in face masks. I pull these out because some days, all of the discipline in the world can’t help my dry skin. These face masks get me ready for special moments or just simply for a new week. Make sure you exfoliate before your face masks, though! (See No. 2) I love these affordable eye masks from Sephora and this two-step Milk Peeling Facemask that also helps exfoliate.
