Dry Skin Care Tips
Autumn is upon us and winter is (unfortunately) approaching quickly. Not only does this mean shorter daylight, colder temperatures, and daydreaming of tropical destinations, but it commonly also means the onset of dry, itchy, flaky skin.
Spectrum Dermatology wants to share our tips & tricks for maintaining hydrated, healthy skin despite what Mother Nature throws your way.
1.) Turn down the temperature (even just a little bit). This tip applies to both the thermostat setting in your home but also to the temperature of the water you use to bathe. The temperature should be tolerable but not as hot as you can handle. Excess heat strips good oils out of your skin and can leave it red and irritated.
2.) Minimize soap use (we promise you will still get clean). When you bathe, the only areas that need soap regularly are the face, underarms, private areas, and the feet. Other areas get perfectly clean with just water (of course if you are particularly dirty, sweaty, or have come in contact with irritants then by all means wash with soap). Minimizing the areas of soap use as well as swapping your harsher soaps for gentle ones or non-soap cleansers can make a huge difference in keeping all of the healthy oils in the skin.
3.) Take advantage of your showers or baths. It is commonly thought that bathing daily is bad for your skin. This is not inherently true; you just have to know how to use it to your advantage. Bathing opens up pores and (very briefly) allows moisture to enter the skin. If you don’t lock that moisture in immediately after bathing, the moisture is not only lost but the same water that initially can help moisturize your skin can become an irritant. Pat dry after bathing and immediately apply an unscented moisturizer while your skin is still damp to lock in the moisture and leave your skin happy. Ointments and creams are more effective than lighter lotions in their moisturizing abilities.
4.) Add some humidity. Whether it is small humidifier just for you bedroom or a whole-home unit, adding moisture back into your living environment can minimize how much moisture your skin sacrifices.
5.) Don’t forget about sunscreen. Skin exposed to UV rays needs year-round protection; yes, even in the middle of winter. Choose mineral-based SPF 30+ options (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide based) which tend to be much better tolerated by those with sensitive skin.