For several days, after abnormally mild weeks, the cold is fine and should linger for a while. And it is that these winter temperatures make life difficult for our skin. Redness, tightness, chapped lips, itching or even cracking… Cold air quickly attacks the epidermis.
In winter, to maintain body temperature and protect vital organs, the body diverts blood circulation. The result: the skin’s surface is fresher and more fragile.
However, it is not only the cold and the wind that irritate the skin. Variations in temperature and the dry, hot and stuffy air of heated interiors do not improve the condition of your skin. BFMTV.com puts together a list of good and bad things you need to know about taking care of it during the winter.
Hands and face very exposed to cold
During the winter season, the face is on the front line against the cold. For this reason, it is advisable to apply a moisturizing cream at least once a day, preferably after washing or in the morning, to protect the face before facing the cold and the outside wind.
Many people are also prone to dry hands or even cracks and cracks on the hands that can be very painful. To protect yourself from this, it is also recommended to have a moisturizing and repairing cream on hand.
Also, avoid washing your hands for too long, especially in water that is too hot. If you have to handle aggressive household products or wash the dishes, always use gloves to protect your hands, as the Bioderma dermatological laboratory website reminds us.
When drying, be sure to dry well between your fingers and remove the rings to avoid getting water or soap on there. Also, prefer towels, paper or cloth, instead of electric hand dryers that dry out the skin even more. When you go outdoors, protect your hands with gloves.
Hot showers to avoid
While it is tempting to take a long hot shower when you come home from a cold day, this gesture should be avoided if your skin is dry and uncomfortable because the hot water will attack it. However, it is not necessary to take a cold shower. Warm water will suffice.
Also be careful with the shower gel you use: some can irritate and dry out the skin. Dermatologists and pharmacists advise opting for surgras products with neutral PH.
When you get out of the shower, especially for people who have intense itching, it’s a good idea to hydrate by applying a cream or milk to soften the skin.
Clothes and food
On a day-to-day basis, small gestures can improve your well-being. For example, certain clothes can be avoided because rubbing them can make the itch worse. It is better to avoid underwear and garments made of synthetic fibers and wool, prefer cotton, which is softer on the skin. Also, clothing that is too tight can cause irritation.
If you cover up too much, you can sweat quickly, and if the sweat stays on your skin for too long, the itching intensifies. Dressing warm is important in winter, but be sure to layer up so you can easily uncover yourself.
At home, an environment that is too dry and hot, especially at night in the bedroom, is bad for the skin. Remember to ventilate the rooms and, if necessary, humidify the air with a humidifier or simply with a basin of water.
When your skin is dry, it’s important to stay well hydrated by remembering to drink regularly and throughout the day. In addition, certain foods can also help: lipids, fatty acids, omega-3s, fruits and vegetables, or oilseeds.
Source: BFM TV
