10 Ways To Manage Dry Skin During the Colder Months

Although it lacks the vibrant leaves of autumn and the colorful blooms of spring, winter brings its own unique beauty to our world, especially in places with snow. But what’s not beautiful about the season is how our bodies react to the colder weather. The frigid temperatures and lack of humidity can lead to cracked skin, chapped lips, and general dryness, leaving us feeling itchy and uncomfortable.

Thankfully, you don’t have to settle for months of discomfort. There are plenty of ways to protect yourself against these wintertime skin afflictions, beyond just slathering yourself in lotion every hour. It may take a while to see a difference, but if you stay consistent, your skin will feel and look better than ever. Here are a few tips for managing dry skin during the colder months.

Exfoliate Often

It’s important to exfoliate for a number of reasons, the first being to remove all of the dry and dead skin that causes unsightly flaking. Exfoliating also helps to reveal and rejuvenate the healthy layer of skin underneath. Steer clear of exfoliants that contain harsh chemicals such as alcohol, though. Instead, opt for oil-based exfoliants, which keep the skin hydrated and protect against flaking. After exfoliating, wash your skin with lukewarm water, as water that’s too hot or cold may worsen dryness.

Take Cooler Showers

Speaking of water temperature, hot showers are among the worst contributors to skin dryness in the colder months. While it may be tempting to crank up the temperature on a cold winter’s day, hot water actually washes away the essential oils that keep the skin hydrated. Try lowering the temperature of your shower, and be sure to limit your bathing time, as long showers have a similar drying effect at any temperature.

Use Emollient Creams Overnight

Caring for your skin during winter means being proactive, and one of the best ways to do that is by applying moisturizers that your body can absorb while you sleep. Emollient creams and ointments are particularly effective, because they create a film on your skin’s outer layer that acts as a barrier to seal in moisture and soften scaly, dry patches. Apply an emollient cream just before bedtime and let it soak into your skin overnight.

Moisturize After Washing

While it’s important to moisturize throughout the day, it’s especially critical to do so after a shower or bath, when your skin has just absorbed plenty of water. You want to seal in all that hydration before it evaporates in the cool air, so resist the temptation to dry off with a warm towel and then step directly into a pair of flannel pajamas. Instead, apply a moisturizer to your entire body while your skin is still damp — and then cozy up to your heart’s content.

Avoid Harsh Materials

While wool can certainly keep you warm, it may further irritate already-dry skin. Steer clear of coarse, rough fabrics, especially on colder days when your skin is particularly susceptible to chafing. Instead, layer loose, comfy, breathable apparel such as thermals made of 100% cotton.

Apply Sunscreen

Don’t be fooled by those gloomy winter skies — the sun’s UV rays can still creep through on even the cloudiest days. If you’re planning to go outside, apply sunscreen 20 minutes before heading out the door, and be sure to cover every bit of skin exposed to the elements, including your lips. Otherwise, you risk burning and drying out your skin.

Use Humidifiers

When indoors, it’s important to maintain a good humidity level to keep skin hydrated and avoid aggravating conditions such as eczema. The Mayo Clinic recommends a humidity level between 30% and 50%, as anything higher increases the risk of mold developing in your home and on your furniture. Install humidifiers in every room of the house to keep those levels even.

Wear Gloves

Our hands are particularly susceptible to dryness, due to how often we wash them, constant exposure to the elements, and the ways in which we use them to handle various things throughout the day. That’s why it’s essential to protect them by wearing winter gloves. Gloves protect your hands from direct contact with wind, cold, and potentially hazardous chemicals — all of which can dry out your skin. Try applying a hand cream before you don your gloves, to seal in a bit of extra moisture.

Consult Your Dermatologist

Everyone’s body is different, and not all dry skin is because of the colder weather. You may have an undiagnosed skin condition, which is why it’s important to consult a dermatologist and go for annual exams. Don’t self-diagnose; instead, reach out to a doctor who may be able to prescribe specific treatments for your dry skin.

Drink Water

Drinking water won't necessarily hydrate your skin, but if your body's dehydrated, it'll take a toll. Be sure to drink lots of water throughout the day, and avoid dehydrating beverages such as coffee and alcohol. You can also supplement your water intake with a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.