Cold Weather Skin Care Secrets: How to Fix Dry, Flaky Skin Naturally

 Cold Weather Skin Care Secrets: How to Fix Dry, Flaky Skin Naturally

We’re in about two feet of snow right now, with more on the way. With these sub-zero temperatures you’ve probably noticed your skin feeling tight, flaky, or irritated — no matter how much lotion you use.

You’re not imagining it. Cold weather can be extremely harsh on your skin, but with the right routine and a few simple lifestyle shifts, you do a lot to keep your skin healthy, comfortable, and glowing.

First up, why does my skin get dry in winter, in particular? 

Well, it’s a combination of different factors. 

Cold air holds much less moisture, and indoor heating dries the air out even more. If it’s windy, the wind can also pull moisture out of your skin and hot showers - while they feel great - actually remove a lot of your skin’s natural protective oils. So after a while of this you get flaking, itching, redness, or just plain irritated skin. 

So that’s the why. Now here’s what you can do about it. 

1. Switch to a richer moisturizer

Lightweight lotions usually aren’t going to cut it. You need something thick enough to seal in moisture. Just make sure you read the ingredients and go for healthy, natural things like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, oatmeal, coconut oil, or chamomile.

2. Hydrate hydrate hydrate

We talk about hydration when it’s hot out, but if your skin feels dry check your hydration. Your skin relies on internal hydration to stay plump and resilient.

3. Eat healthy fats

Even if you’re trying out a new diet or losing weight remember that your skin needs fats to stay moisturized. Omega-3 rich foods like salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, and avocados help your body produce natural oils that protect your skin.

4. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating is great, but can really do a number on your skin. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air and helps prevent water loss from your skin — especially while you sleep. If you don’t have a humidifier, a diffuser can also help.

5. Don’t over-wash

The more you wash your skin (especially with hot water) the more you strip away your skin’s natural oils and the more dry it’ll become.

6. No skipping sunscreen

Even during the winter and even when it’s overcast, UV rays are still out. And if you have two feet of snow outside like I do, the snow can reflect sunlight back at you which actually increases your exposure. Sunscreen protects your skin from damage and premature aging year-round.

7. Support collagen

Collagen helps keep your skin firm, elastic, and hydrated. The effects of cold weather and dryness can speed up collagen breakdown. So, supporting collagen through foods like bone broth or collagen peptides is one way to support your skin from the inside out.

8. Don’t forget vitamin D!

Vitamin D is huge for skin health. And is one everyone is short on during the winter. So if you can’t enjoy some sunshine, it might be a good idea to consider adding in vitamin D foods or supplements. 

Winter skin care boils down to about three things: hydration, protection, and adjustment.

Stay warm!

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