How to get rid of dry skin in winter? What are the remedies for dry skin?
Nourish Mantra
How to get rid of dry skin in winter? What are the remedies for dry skin?
When the seasons change, you swap many things like breezy summer clothes to warm, cozy winter clothes, cold beverages to warm drinks, stews or soups and air conditioners to heaters. Facing dry skin in winter is expected as there is a change in humidity and temperature levels at this time of the year.
What is skin dryness?
Skin dryness occurs when your skin cannot retain sufficient moisture due to frequent hand-washing, bathing with harsh soaps or certain medical conditions. The cold winter days and lower the level of humidity in nights both indoors and outdoors have a big impact on your skin. The water content of the outermost layer of the skin, called the epidermis, is pulled back by the sudden weather change.
What are the symptoms of dry skin?
When the winter approaches, skin becomes dry which is a temporary skin condition. You need to follow a dry skin treatment. Some of the symptoms of dry skin are:
- Skin becomes tight, especially after taking bath or shower
- Skin becomes rough
- Constant itching
- Flakiness, scaliness or cracks in the skin
- Skin color becomes dry
- Discoloration of skin color
- Fissures and cracks that becomes deep and bleeds
What are the causes of dry skin?
Winter winds and colder air run off moisture from the skin and make the skin dry and dull. But do you know some of the unintentional mistakes you make that cause dry skin? It is necessary to see the skin dryness causes before you go on a hunt for its treatment:
It's ok to take hot showers in the cold weather. However, taking steaming showers is one of the skin dryness causes. It strips away your skin's natural oils and makes your skin feel dry and tight. It also damages the epidermis (the skin's topmost layer of the skin), which results in irritated, inflamed and itchy dry skin.
Exfoliation plays a major role in a weekly skincare routine. It sloughs away the dead skin cells from the skin, removes the toxins and imparts radiant glow but overdoing it can hamper the skin texture by making it extremely dry and flaky.
Following a skincare routine for winter will not give you nourished, moisturized, healthy skin for longer. You must follow a mindful and clean diet, as what you eat reflects on your skin. The look and feel of the skin gets disturbed when you consume junk, fried and unhealthy fast food as they don't fulfill your daily nutrition requirement leading to deficiencies. Smoking and alcohol consumption also makes your skin dry.
A person undergoing severe medical conditions or taking certain medications will also aggravate dry skin in winter.
As you age, the skin loses its elasticity and ability to produce collagen and essential oils to keep the water content and moisture intact, which causes dry skin.
Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions may lead to itchy, dry skin due to cold, windy weather.
Sometimes you use products on your skin that are not made for you. Face washes, soaps, toners, serums and other skin & beauty products that remove oil from your skin. It not only strips the natural oil from the skin but also the moisture making you feel dry, stretchy and flaky, especially on cold winter days. You should know your skin type and use products accordingly as if some is sensitive and dry skin type will have to take extra care.
Washing your face frequently strips off the protective, hydrated and moisturized layer of the skin, thereby causing dry, itchy skin.
You may find sunlight very soothing and calming in winter and think of its benefits as it gives natural vitamin D, but exposing your skin for longer will damage it as UV rays harm it, making it dry.
- Not keeping a tab on water intake
If you don't keep yourself hydrated in winter, your skin will become dehydrated. In winter, you may not feel thirsty frequently, but it is necessary to keep yourself hydrated; more prolonged dehydration will show uncertain effects on your skin. It leads to stretchy, tight, dry and flaky skin.
What is an ideal skin care routine for dry skin?
To alleviate skin dryness during winter is not much complicated if you follow a skin care routine for dry skin religiously. If you are thinking what change a daily skin care routine will bring to your skin, then you should first follow it for a few days and see the difference as your skin may be susceptible to harmful UV rays and pollution even if you are staying indoors. Hence, you need to think twice while investing in a cleanser, moisturizers, sunscreens etc. A correct choice will make a huge difference in giving you a healthy and glowing skin. Here is the chronological order of adopting a perfect skin routine for winter dry skin.
Winter is the classic time to try double cleansing
The first and foremost step is to do double cleansing. If you are the one traveling the most or your skin is more exposed to environmental stressors then you can't skip this step. It is essential to keep your skin hydration in check. It is simple, you just need to wash your face with two different cleansers. The only catch is the first cleanser should be an oil based one (almond, jojoba and sunflower oil is recommended) and it should be followed by a mild water-based one. They maintain equilibrium in natural oil production, removes dirt & grime and leaves skin squeaky clean,soft & supple.
Winter intensifies dry skin, exfoliation replenishes the skin
While skin cleansing is an unquestionable part of the skin care routine, exfoliation is equally important in dry skin care. Exfoliation effectively removes the unwanted layer of dead skin and clogged pores thereby making your skin look fresh, clear, glowing and energetic. It is important because regular exfoliation also rejuvenates the skin. It widely opens arms for moisturizer and absorption of other skin care products. But you also need to keep in mind that in winters, your skin is already dry, so exfoliate carefully. Using a mild exfoliator and rubbing it gently on your skin in circular motion, once done rinse your skin with a good exfoliator.
Avoid using chemical exfoliators as they can make your skin experience itchy and dry skin. Therefore, it becomes vital to indulge in a mild and natural face scrub in your skin routine that nourishes your skin. Scrub your face twice a week and never go overboard.
Pick high performing face serum that guards your skin better in cold environment
To alleviate the reason for skin dryness in winters, skin demands an additional boost of TLC (treatment, love and care). You need a few drops of lightweight yet nourishing face serum that penetrates in the skin deeply providing intense moisturization and hydration. Serums having hyaluronic acid are recommended for winter dryness as they lend deeper hydration and moisturization. It also strengthens the skin barrier so that it can strongly protect your skin against cold environments. It gives a dewy, smooth, supple and flawless skin.
You can't afford to miss that daily dose of moisturization
A secret step in your dry skincare is an ample amount of moisturization. Prioritize moisturization, as it is the best way to kick off the winter skin problems effortlessly and makes your skin look flawless. You need a nourishing moisturizer that softens dry skin, locks in moisture and makes your skin look healthy. Chemical moisturizers may look fancy but are a big no. Natural moisturizers that have nature's blessed ingredients will work well. their lightweight formulation melts and glides easily on your skin. it deeply penetrates in the layers of your skin for a smooth, soft, supple and moisturized glow. It helps to alleviate dry and rough patches with its moisturizing and nourishing properties.
And yeah! You still need sunscreen in winters
You cannot neglect applying sunscreen in winters. Winter;s sun is more harmful for your skin. It is because you love to enjoy that cozy and warm sun in winters but forget that harmful UV rays will not spare your skin. It will accelerate signs of skin aging and pigmentation. So always layer sunscreen for safeguarding your skin.
How to soothe itchy dry skin?
Winter season can wreak havoc on your skin. Don't let the harsh cold temperatures and dry winds take essential moisture from your skin. Follow the above-mentioned skin pampering routine andwork on a few dry skin care tips. Caring for your skin becomes necessary; it involves a combination of wardrobe, food, skin routine and product changes.
Following are the 9 points for dry skin tips:
You should not take extremely hot steaming showers as it evaporates the skin's natural hydration and dries its natural oil. Also, short the time of taking hot showers.
Apply moisturizer after taking a shower when your skin is damp, as it absorbs the product quickly. It traps moisture in the skin.
Slather moisturizer in the morning and evening on your face, neck, arms, and legs.
Go for double cleansing in the morning. It will keep your skin hydrated and free from dryness. You'll get squeaky clear skin.
Toners have astringent properties and few are also made up of alcohol. It may disturb the skin's moisture barrier.
Going overboard on exfoliation will worsen the condition of dry skin. It will also deplete the moisture. Go for a gentle scrub that is formulated with lactic acid and fruit acids.
Rather than using abrasive cleansing tools like loofahs, sponges or body brushes, softer washcloths can hamper skin's hydration barrier. Don't rub your face against the towel, just dab your face and body.
The heat that keeps you cozy and warm is also a cause of making your skin dry as the windows are closed and it revolves inside. Use a humidifier as it adds moisture back into the air.
Winter makes lips dry, flaky, deep cracks and painful. Keep a lip balm always in your bag that brings moisture to it and doesn't worsen the situation.
Your hands are the prime targets for dry skin as they are used too often. Experts suggest that you put on gloves before going outdoors or while handling chemicals, greases, or other substances in your hands.
You also need to focus on inside hydration to keep your skin healthy and glowing outside. You should involve a lot of fluids in your daily diet to clear dry skin areas. Also, eat foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids as they protect the skin cell from environmental stressors.
What are magical home remedies for dry skin?
Home remedies for dry skin in winters work amazingly well. They are a great alternative to medical treatments sometimes. However, if a person is facing chronic skin conditions such as rosacea, cystic acne, psoriasis etc, consult with your dermatologists first.
- Banana and honey face mask
What do you need?
- Ripe banana
- Rice flour
- Honey
- Turmeric powder
What to do?
- Take one ripe banana and mash it.
- Mix one tablespoon of rice flour, two tablespoons of honey and half tablespoon of turmeric powder in the mash.
- Blend the ingredients well to make a creamy texture.
- Apply it on the face and keep it for 15-20 minutes.
- Once dried, massage the skin gently and wash it off with water.
What are the benefits?
- Rich in moisture, antioxidants and phytochemicals
- Banana is rich in potassium that deeply moisturizes the skin
- Honey is humectant that is packed with antiseptic and antibacterial properties
- This face mask doesn't make your skin oily.
- Yoghurt, cucumber and honey face mask
What do you need?
- Cucumber
- Honey
- Yoghurt
What to do?
- De-seeds one cucumber and grind it.
- Mix the cucumber mash with two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of yoghurt.
- Apply the blend on your face.
- Leave it on your skin for 30 minutes.
- Rinse it off with water.
What are the benefits?
- Cucumber's water gives your skin intense hydration.
- Cucumber has anti-inflammatory properties that are ideal for treating sunburn and rashes.
- Yoghurts creamy texture seals in the moisture.
- Honey is a humectant that absorbs moisture onto the skin.
- Honey also helps to keep the pores squeaky clean.
- Moisture boosting body oil
What do you need?
- Virgin coconut oil
- Sesame oil
- Castor oil
- Ghee
- Turmeric powder
- Saffron
What to do?
- Mix together half a cup of virgin coconut oil with sesame oil in a bowl.
- In it, add 2-3 tablespoons of castor oil and one tablespoon of ghee.
- Add 1 tablespoon of wild turmeric powder and a few strands of saffron.
- Transfer the mixture into a glass bottle.
- To infuse all the things, keep the bottle under the sunlight for 2-3 days.
- You can use it twice a week to massage your whole body before bathing.
What are the benefits?
- Coconut oil is an emollient and comprises fatty acids that nourishes the skin.
- Sesame oil is enriched with the goodness of vitamin E and oleic acid that works as the best moisturizer.
- Castor oil is a humectant that absorbs and retains moisture.
- Turmeric has antiseptic properties and quickly heals the skin.
- Papaya and raw milk face mask
What do you need?
- Papaya
- Raw Milk
What to do?
- Cut a ripe papaya and take its few cubes.
- Mash the papaya cubes in a smooth paste along with cold raw milk.
- Wash off your face with plain water and gently rub the mask off the face.
What are the benefits?
- Papaya has potassium that hydrates the skin.Papain, an enzyme in papaya lowers the skin inflammation.
- Raw milk is best for exfoliation and it has hydrating properties.
- Cold raw milk acts as the best toner for dry skin.
- Coconut milk and gram flour face mask
What do you need?
- Gram flour
- Coconut milk
- Turmeric
What to do?
- Make a lump free paste using two tablespoons of gram flour with freshly pressed thick coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of turmeric in it.
- Apply it on your face evenly.
- Leave it till it dries and then wash with lukewarm water.
What to do?
- Gram flour is the best exfoliator.
- Gram flour also keeps the pH level of the skin in balance.
- Coconut milk serves as the best moisturizer due to the presence of natural fatty acids.
Which are the best skin care products for dry skin by Nourish Mantra ?
Vetiver and Lavender Upayas Hand Lotion
A buttery texture that is a delight not only for your hands but also for your senses. This creamy concoction of coconut oil, almond oil and shea butter will moisturize your skin deeply. It is a savior for your hands when winter takes a major toll on your skin. It is enriched with antioxidant, calming rejuvenating properties.
Soft Nirvana Body Lotion
A moisturizer that your skin has been searching for. It delivers nourishment, hydration and moisturization instantly. It buffs up the skin with its creamy texture. The therapeutic ingredients in this best moisturizer for dry skin in winter are Tamarind, Gotu Kola and Indian Ginseng, which makes it an absolute body care product.
Truglow Face Mask
A mask that delivers an unbeatable glow in just a few minutes. It is enriched with the goodness of Multani Mitti, Sandalwood Oil and Turmeric Extracts. In a single application, you'll notice fresh and clear skin. The exfoliation process with this mask will fight away skin dryness which also calls for premature signs of aging. It also improves blood circulation, alleviates dullness and imparts radiance.
Cinnamon Divya Body Oil
A great blend of Hemp Seed Oil, Olive Oil and Cinnamon Oil that detoxifies and moisturizes the skin. It is a lightweight and quickly absorbing formulation that has an immense amount of bioactive nutrients and antioxidants that restore the skin's natural barrier.
FAQ’s
Due to a sudden change in environmental conditions, your skin becomes dry during winter. The outside cold temperatures and low amount of humidity push you to spend more time inside, which is not an ideal situation. Also, the harsh winds or heat lower the humidity indoors and cause dry skin.
You should shower daily but keep it short and avoid extremely hot water for bathing. It may feel relaxing to take these hot showers, but they will strip off the skin's natural oils and evaporate faster, pulling moisture from your skin.
Bathing bars formulated with chemicals disturb the skin's pH balance. Either use natural bathing bars or natural body washes to keep the skin moisturized.
Yes, you should use either body lotions or creams and always carry them while traveling. Apply it immediately when you wash your face or hand in the middle of the day. They protect the skin against evaporation of the water and hold in the moisture.
Yes! Sunscreen should be applied daily. UV rays pass through the clouds and penetrate in the skin, which disrupts the skin's moisture barrier.
Wear breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo underneath the wool or synthetic fibers in winter to prevent irritation and dryness.