Essential Winter Skin Care Tips
Winter is a time when humidity is at its lowest. So for those with dry skin, it can get quite uncomfortable, as the skin gets taut, chaps easily, dries out and flakes. Also, during this season, the skin needs to be pampered with moisturisers and emollients.
For normal to dry skin, applying a cleansing gel containing aloe vera extracts is very helpful. However, it’s best to first apply the gel and then gently wipe off with moist cotton to allow the skin to be moisturised. Oily skin too, needs moisture during the cold months, as the outer layer can get very dry, but only light moisturizing lotions used be applied to oily skin.
Say Yes To Sunscreen
During winter, people often spend the day out, soaking up the warmth of the sun. But exposure to the sun can really accelerate ageing. In fact, even if time stands still, the sun alone, can cause the skin to age. Hence, opt to use a sunscreen lotion at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, to allow your skin to absorb it. If you stay out and expose yourself to the sun for more than 30 minutes, re-apply the sunscreen.
Also, nourish your skin with a cream every night, if you have normal to dry skin. Apply the cream and massage it onto your skin with a little water. For this, use outward and slight upward strokes and gently wipe off all the cream with moist cotton, so as to prevent further moisture depletion.
For Dry Skin
For dry and dehydrated skin, it is safer to avoid soap, so apply a lemon- turmeric cream before washing or bathing, as it helps to protect your skin from further moisture depletion. It also softens skin and helps to soothe dehydrated skin-sensitivity. After a shower, apply a body lotion, while your skin is still damp, because it helps to seal off moisture.
Hair And Hand Care
Heat pure coconut oil and apply it to your scalp as well as to your hair followed by a hot towel wrap around your head. Wash your hair with a mild herbal shampoo the next morning, for best results.
For soft hands right through the winter months, mix lemon juice with sugar and scrub your hands with this mixture. Also, massage your hands with a cream soon after a shower and after any washing chores.