Protect Your Skin Against Cold Weather

Cold weather is known to damage your skin if you don’t protect it from the cold. It is because your skin produces fewer natural oils to protect itself, making your skin more vulnerable to dryness and inflammation. 

Furthermore, cold wind can also cause a significant drying sensation on your skin and lead to dry, exposed areas, such as the nose or eyelids. Experts have also noted that cool weather can cause a loss of chemical components in the skin, causing a vulnerability to any external irritant.

If you want to avoid any potential problems or damage to your skin this winter season, there are specific steps you should take when temperatures drop below freezing degrees Fahrenheit. Here are some ways to protect your skin against cold weather.

Moisturize

As the weather gets colder, your skin produces less oil. Essentially, the oil in your skin is a mixture of fats and water. When you use moisturizers, they replenish the oil in your skin that is lost due to cold weather. Experts recommend that you apply moisturizer to your face and hands at least 10 minutes before heading outdoors to reduce dryness on the skin’s surface. 

You can also apply an emollient cream to your hands to keep them warm throughout the day. Avoid using a sunburn lotion as it may cause additional problems if applied to these areas of skin.

Avoid Hot Water

It is essential to stay away from the shower if you need to use it during cold weather. Hot water causes your skin to become even drier. Instead, you should adjust the temperature of the water inside your shower to a slightly warm or even cool temperature. 

For instance, if it is colder than 68 degrees Fahrenheit outside, try reducing the water temperature inside your shower to around 70 or 72 degrees Fahrenheit to compensate for the cold weather and save yourself from drying out more skin.

Use Gloves 

When you go outside, make sure to wear a pair of gloves or gauntlet to keep your hands warm. Experts recommend just using a long-sleeved shirt and pair of gloves instead of putting on several layers of clothing. More clothes may not keep you warm and can also cause more sweating than necessary, leading to damage to the skin. 

However, wearing wet clothing can also lead to increased dry skin and chapping around the wrists. Thus, experts also recommend that you change your undergarments whenever you go inside an indoor place such as a building or home. They even suggest bringing an extra set of clothes along with you when going outside to avoid recurring dryness on your skin.

Avoid Winter Tanning

The harsh weather conditions during the winter can lead to damage to your skin, including an increased risk of developing age spots and wrinkles. Thus, you must avoid getting a suntan during the winter season. If you must go outside during the afternoon when the sun is shining brightly, then make sure to wear an umbrella to protect yourself from any harmful UV rays. 

If possible, try reducing your sun exposure during the winter months as it can lead to further development of dryness on the skin. If you decide to use sunscreen, be sure that it is a moisturizer with SPF or contains ingredients for healthier skin, such as hyaluronic acid.

Take Vitamin D Supplement

It is also essential that you take a daily dose of vitamin D for smoother and healthier skin. When your vitamin D levels are low, it can lead to problems like dryness, brittle nails, and skin rashes.  When winter comes, the sun exposure decreases. It can lead to a shortage of Vitamin D in your body, making your skin vulnerable to these and other problems.

Use Hand Creams/Gels

It would help if you used hand creams or gels every time you wash your hands before going outdoors. When used with the gauntlet, it can help protect your skin from cold winds and harsh weather. 

Protect Your Hair

It is also essential that you try protecting your hair from the dryness of cold weather. Dry hair can cause dandruff, split ends, and even cracks on the scalp’s surface. Therefore, experts recommend using a conditioner on your hair every time you shower to keep them looking healthy and smooth. Use a dehumidifier or humidifier in your home if the air is too dry or humid. 

Drink Plenty Of Water

You must consume plenty of water every day to keep your skin nourished from the inside out. The water helps hydrate the skin by keeping it hydrated longer than most moisturizers will. If it is colder than 70 degrees Fahrenheit outside, try drinking at least 80 ounces of water each day. If the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, try drinking at least 96 ounces each day.

Use Lip Balm

It may be hard to keep your lips moisturized throughout cold weather, especially if they dry quickly. As a result, experts suggest using lip balms as often as possible. You can apply a lip balm before going outdoors or whenever your lips feel dry. 

Furthermore, experts suggest that you use a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher. It will help keep your lips protected from the damaging rays of the sun. Lip balms include moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter to keep your lips from becoming dry and scaly throughout winter.

Takeaway

Cold weather can cause a lot of damage to your skin, so it is essential to take precautions to keep it protected. If you follow these tips, you can keep your skin healthy this winter season. 

Also, make sure to wear warm clothes during cold weather to stay warm. You should avoid going outside in the middle of the day when it is sunny, as exposure to sunlight can cause damage to your skin. 

In addition, you should take time every day to do facial exercises or massage to tighten up any loose skin that may have resulted after being exposed to cold wind and other weather conditions during this season.