Winter is coming, and for some of us, so is the constant battle with dry, flaky, itchy and chapped skin. Sometimes your skin can even look dull and it seems like it’s lost its glow. At Olay, we understand how frustrating it can feel, so discover why your skin gets dry during winter, how to moisturise it, and how to tackle winter rashes caused by dryness for a truly healthy-looking, hydrated skin.
- WHY DOES MY SKIN GET SO DRY IN WINTER?
- SYMPTOMS OF DRY WINTER SKIN
- HOW TO TAKE CARE OF DRY SKIN IN WINTER USING WINTER SKIN CARE ROUTINE
- THE BOTTOM LINE ABOUT DRY SKIN IN WINTER
WHY DOES MY SKIN GET SO DRY IN WINTER?
Dry, cracked skin on your body or face is one of the most common skin care conditions, and most people have had to tackle it before. It happens when your skin is unable to hold moisture properly, and it can result in patches of red, rough and itchy skin. The causes of dry skin can vary, but one thing is certain – winter is especially harsh on your skin. Cold weather, wind and low humidity in the air both outside and inside can all contribute to moisture loss that can lead to your skin drying out. Read on to find out what you can do to avoid your skin getting uncomfortably dry in winter.
So, what causes dry skin in winter?
The causes of dry skin can vary, but one thing is certain – winter is especially harsh on your skin. Cold weather, wind and low humidity in the air both outside and inside can all contribute to moisture loss that can lead to your skin drying out.
SYMPTOMS OF DRY WINTER SKIN
The symptoms of dry winter skin include:
Itchiness: Skin may feel itchy and uncomfortable.
Flakiness and Peeling: Skin may flake or peel, particularly on the face, hands, and legs.
Redness: Dry skin can become red and irritated.
Rough Texture: Skin may feel rough to the touch.
Cracks: Severe dryness can lead to cracks and fissures in the skin, which may be painful.
Tightness: Skin can feel tight and stretched, especially after washing.
Dullness: Dry skin often looks dull and lacks radiance.
Fine Lines: Dryness can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles, making them more noticeable.
These symptoms are often exacerbated by cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating, all common during the winter months. Read on to find out what you can do to avoid your skin getting uncomfortably dry in winter.
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF DRY SKIN IN WINTER USING WINTER SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Moisturisation is definitely at the centre of attention when it comes to winter skin care. But to get the most out of your hydration moisturiser, you need to apply it just at the right time in your skin care routine.
1. MILD CLEANSER
Cleansing should always be the first step in your skin care routine, no matter your skin type or lifestyle. A great facial cleanser, like Olay Cleanse Detox & Glow Daily Polish Cleanser, specially designed for daily use. This gentle cleanser is powered by touch-activated exfoliating particles that work to purify and refine skin texture. Enriched with nourishing vitamin E and pro-vitamin B5, it not only eliminates dull and dead skin cells but also unveils a brighter, more glowing complexion.
2. GENTLE EXFOLIATION
Exfoliating helps you get rid of dead skin cells and prep your skin to absorb all the moisture from your moisturiser later. Exfoliate gently to avoid irritation.
3. HYDRATING TONER (OPTIONAL)
Apply a toner to balance your skin and prep it for moisturiser. Choose a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. These will help replenish moisture and soothe your skin. Avoid alcohol-based toners as they can be drying.
4. RICH MOISTURISER
Hydration is essential, so the first product you’ll need to choose when preparing your skin for winter is a great moisturiser. It’s not only the product that’s important, but the ingredients it contains. Here are some of the ingredients you should definitely look for when picking out an effective hydrating product:
Glycerine should always be the number one ingredient to look for when buying a product to protect against winter skin. It is an outstanding moisturiser, and an expert at pulling water to the top layer of your skin, keeping it moisturised.
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B, and it strengthens your skin’s moisture barrier so it can better hold on to precious moisture better. It’s perfect for dry skin in winter, as with Niacinamide, your skin is less likely to dry out and stays hydrated longer.
Shea butter is basically a fat extracted from shea tree nuts, and thanks to its fatty acid content, it absorbs rapidly into your skin. It is not only incredibly effective in hydrating your skin, but it also helps restore your moisture barrier, so your skin can retain the precious moisture it has gained.
We recommend Olay Renegerist Ultra Rich as your face cream for winter, because it is packed with the most hydrating ingredients, designed to tackle dry skin in winter. Its rich texture wraps your skin in ultimate comfort and leaves a non-greasy feel after quick absorption.
Apart from its Niacinamide and Peptide Complex, it contains a unique shea butter blend that is truly effective against chapped skin.
5. SUN PROTECTION
Yes, even in winter. UV rays are present throughout the whole year, so use sun protection with SPF 15 or higher daily even when it’s cloudy outside.
We recommend Olay Complete Moisturise & Glow (check with marketing if this is the product to recomened) Day Cream with Vitamin B3, Vitamin E, Pro-V B5, and SolaSheer Technology nourishing and protecting your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
6. LIP CARE
Use a hydrating lip balm to protect your lips from dryness and cracking.
OTHER WINTER SKIN TIPS TO PREVENT AND TREAT DRY AND ITCHY SKIN
7. HUMIDIFY
With the heating on in your house, the humidity in the air tends to go low during winter. Help your skin retain its moisture by investing in a humidifier.
8. AVOID HOT BATHS
You may love hot showers and baths, but your skin would disagree. Hot water can result in tight, dry skin, so try to limit the exposure as much as possible and use lukewarm water.
9. DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Hydration from the inside is just as important as from the outside. Watch out for your water intake and try to aim at minimum two litres per day.
10. PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from cold wind and harsh weather.
11. AVOID OVERHEATING INDOORS
Keep indoor temperatures moderate to prevent drying out your skin.
THE BOTTOM LINE ABOUT DRY SKIN IN WINTER
Dry skin is a common skin concern, especially during winter, as the harsh environmental conditions can easily wreak havoc on your skin. Make sure to keep your skin hydrated with an effective moisturiser, be mindful about when you use it in your skin care routine, and make some lifestyle changes, such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding hot baths to ensure healthy-looking and bright skin all year long.