winter skin careWinter weather can do a  number on your skin. The drops in the temperature and humidity levels make the air dry, robbing your skin of its natural moisture. What’s more, hot indoor air and baths can make the problem worse. To make sure your skin doesn’t chap, itch or redden this season, check out these guidelines for healthy, youthful looking skin.

  1. Don’t bathe in hot water. Showering or taking baths in hot water strips away oils that are essential for healthy looking skin. Choose lukewarm water instead, especially when washing your face and hands.
  2. Moisturize! This is key to more radiant looking skin in the wintertime. After you wash, apply moisturizer to your skin while it’s still a little damp to lock in moisture.
  3. Run the humidifier. Indoor heat dries out the air. To ensure there is plenty of moisture in the air, use a humidifier in your home to keep your skin from becoming dry.
  4. Bundle up. Wear gloves and scarves as much as possible when out in the chilly air to protect your skin from damage.
  5. Wear sunscreen. The sum isn’t just harmful to your skin in the summer time. The UV rays that reflect off of snow can do just as much damage. That’s why it’s important to apply sunscreen to any exposed areas like your face to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.
  6. Stay hydrated. Drinking water year-round is a must for healthy skin. During the winter months it may seem more appealing to reach for hot chocolate or cider, but also be sure you’re drinking plenty of water stay refreshed and hydrated. And eat foods that are high in water content like watermelon, apples, oranges, celery, cucumbers and tomatoes.

To learn more about keeping your skin healthy during the winter months in Philadelphia, Scranton or Maryland, please contact John J.W. Lee, MD, FACS, to schedule a consultation with our experienced cosmetic surgeon.