Dry and cracked skin is a common problem in these blustery and cold times of the year. Your skin can get quite sore, inflamed and is at risk of developing an infection if proper skin care approaches are not used. Below are useful tips to prevent the bothersome ‘winter skin.’
1. Change your moisturizer. Winter season moisturizers are ointment or oil-based to provide greater moisturizing effects, so be sure to change from your summer moisturizer to one more suited to the cold and dry months.
2. Keep hydrated. Drink sufficient fluids to allow your body and skin to have sufficient hydration from the inside.
3. Avoid long hot baths and showers. Fight the urge to take regular long baths and showers as they can strip the skin of its natural moisturizing oils; after you bathe, be sure to only pat-dry your skin and moisturize right away.
4. Use sunscreen. Winter sun can be harsh to your skin, especially with the snow-glare of the sun’s light. Use a broad-based sunscreen or moisturizer that contains sun-protection to sun-exposed areas of your skin (particularly the face and hands).
5. Cover up. Be sure to wear your gloves, socks and scarf to keep the penetrating dry wind from your skin. Change your clothes when you get wet to prevent itching, cracking and soreness of the skin.
6. Adjust humidity. Most homes have central-heating and also use space-heaters which can dry the indoor air significantly. Be sure to adjust your humidity with a humidifier to keep the right moisture level for good skin health. It is also important to clean and maintain your humidifier regularly.
For helpful advice and assistance with your health, contact Lane Family Pharmasave at 705-746-2187, or toll-free at 1-800-661-6106, or visit www.lanefamilypharmacy.com.