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Q: 

Why does skin get so dry in the winter?

By November 9, 2015 - 10:25am
 
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dry skin

My skin always seems to dry out really bad when it gets colder in the winter. I put on a lot of lotion, but it still seems dry. What makes skin get so dry in the winter? Are there any tips to reduce this?

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Guide

Hi Lauren,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community.

Our skin can take a beating with freezing temperatures, low humidity leaving the air dry, which in turns can leave your skin dry, flaky, as well as itchy.

Here are some suggestions:

  • Add humidity to your home. Portable humidifiers or those that work with your heating system put moisture in the air that will be absorbed by your skin and hair.
  • Use an oil-based moisturizer. Ointments or heavy creams seal water in the skin and preserve moisture better when the humidity is low.
  • Slather on sunscreen. Before heading outdoors, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to any exposed areas. Sunscreen protects from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
  • Clean up the right way. Frequent bathing or hot showers or baths can strip your skin of natural oils. Avoid deodorant bars, antibacterial soaps, perfumed soaps, and skin care products containing alcohol. Instead, use warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap or moisturizing body wash. Limit your showers or baths to no more than 10 minutes, pat dry, and moisturize while your skin is still damp.

 

 

I hope this helps.

Be well,

~Gillette

November 9, 2015 - 1:20pm
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