As the seasons shift, so do the needs of our skin. The arrival of fall and winter often brings about the unwelcome companion of dry skin. The colder, less humid months, combined with the cozy warmth of indoor heaters, can leave our skin parched and in need of extra care. In the pursuit of maintaining a healthy, well-hydrated complexion, it becomes essential to understand the root causes of dry skin and adopt effective skincare practices. Haute Beauty Expert Dr. Tamara Lazic Strugar from Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery shares her tips and tricks for tackling dry skin.
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Decoding Dry Skin
Dry skin can affect anyone, especially as the seasons change to colder and less humid months, in the fall and winter. This is exacerbated by using heaters at home which further dry out the air and contribute to skin losing water too quickly and becoming dehydrated. Taking hot baths or showers additionally dries out our skin, too. Therefore, I recommend using humidifiers at home and avoiding frequent, hot baths or showers, lukewarm water is preferred. Think of the good recent data for cold plunges, and find a happy medium to keep your skin and nervous system happy.
Mastering Moisture
Generally, the thicker the moisturizer, the better. Ointments are best for locking in moisture, and although not practical for whole-body use, products such as Vaseline or Aquaphor can be used for dry hands, feet, lips, and eyelids. On the rest of the body, I recommend creams rather than thinner lotions. Some of my favorite hydrating ingredients are glycerin, ceramides, and squalane.
Crafting the Ideal Daily Skincare Routine
- Do not use lotions. Lotions contain too much water and alcohol for dry skin.
- Avoid overbathing (more than once daily).
- When bathing, limit the use of soap to the underarms, groin, and feet.
- Use a mild soap such as La Roche Posay Lipikar Gentle Cleansing Oil, Cetaphil, Cerave, or Dove Sensitive Skin sparingly.
- Avoid soap on the arms, legs, and trunk.
- Pat dry after bathing.
- Within 2 minutes, apply a cream-based moisturizer to all areas.
- La Roche Posay Lipikar AP Balm and Cerave Cream are very effective.
- Lower the temperature in the house, and use a humidifier if possible.
Ingredients to Steer Clear Of
Those with dry skin who are prone to eczema should avoid products with fragrances, as they can trigger allergic reactions. This includes essential oils.
In the journey to conquer dry skin and maintain a vibrant complexion, understanding the environmental and personal factors that contribute to its onset is paramount. As we transition through the colder months, the battle against dryness intensifies, spurred on by indoor heaters and hot baths that sap our skin of its natural moisture. By embracing these insights, you empower yourself to master the art of skincare, ensuring your skin remains supple, healthy, and resilient throughout the ever-changing seasons.
