5 Irksome Winter Skin Problems we need to look after
Is your skin feeling dry, itchy, or flaky? Our skin needs some special attention in the cold winter months in order to look and feel its best. Below are some common issues and ways we can deal with them.
Dryness:
The cold winter air can feel good against your skin, but you need to be mindful that it will also keep your skin dry. During the season, as the climate is harsh to the skin due to dry, cold air and a decrease in humidity, the water in the skin often evaporates easily causing it to feel dry and tight with a flaky appearance.
Cure:
- Keep hydrated to survive the harsh elements and remain moisturised from the inside out.
- Keep your skin hydrated through lotions and moisturisers.
- Feed your body with foods that will recharge your body’s moisture like Avacado, Wild Salmon, Dark leafy greens, and much more.
Winter Rash:
The outer layer of your skin includes natural oils and dead skin cells that keep water within your skin. This helps to keep the skin soft, moisturised, and smooth.
Bitter cold temperatures will affect your skin’s condition. Cold weather and low humidity, rob the much-needed moisture from our skin, as do central heating and hot showers. These extreme temperatures force the skin to lose natural oils, allowing moisture to escape, leading to dry skin and a winter rash.
Cure:
You simply can’t get rid of a winter rash without proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
- Use moisturiser daily.
- Soothe your skin by using oils like coconut oil.
- Avoid daily hot baths
- Use a gentle cleanser on your skin or face.
Chapped Lips:
When your skin experiences dryness during the winter, there are also changes in your lips. They look unsightly, can create chaps and cracks, and even cause pain.
Cure:
- For best results, cold water should be used to moisten the lips before applying items meant to soothe and relax the lips.
- Use products containing vitamins A and E.
Eyebrows Itch and Flakes
Much like an itchy and flaky scalp, eyebrows also get itchy and flaky. This is largely due to a skin disease called seborrheic dermatitis. While the precise cause is unclear, the issue worsens in winter.
Cure:
- Use an anti-itch cream.
- Keeping eyebrows moisturized.
- Use a cold compress for 15-30 minutes to get some relief.
- Antihistamine medications will also help you alleviate itchiness.
UV Damage:
UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn, particularly at high altitudes and reflective surfaces such as snow. Since the snow reflects 80 percent of the UV light so effectively, you are exposed to harmful UV rays twice. This does more damage to the skin.
Cure:
- The easiest way to remain safe from UV exposure is to cover all the visible areas of the body.
- Using sunglasses before riding out in the snow or winter days will be a good shield for your skin.
- Wear a hat to keep your skin safe from UV rays.