HEALTH

It's the most wonderful time of the year...but not for your skin. While the holiday season is certainly festive, sometimes the dry, cold winter months get the best of your skin and make it all dry and cracky. So, how to win the battle between winter and skin? We got you, girl.

1. Moisturize...like, a lot. 
Okay, this may seem super obvious. But we also have a few bonus tips to maximize your moisturizer so that you get the most protection for your skin. Go for an oil-based moisturizer rather than water-based and don't be afraid to use a little actual oil, especially if you're prone to dry skin in the winter months. Apply shortly after you shower or bathe to lock in all that moisture and keep your skin healthy. 

Pro tip: A lot of moisturizers labeled "night-time" are oil based and are perfect for all day wear during the winter months.

2. Shave less.
As if you needed another excuse. While smooth legs can be nice, shaving frequently can create dry, scaly legs. Instead, opt for pants and shave only when you need to, like for that holiday party. And don't forget to moisturize right after.

3. Use less hot water.
A hot shower or bath may sound amazing after being out in the cold all day but super-hot water actually strips your skin of moisture and natural oils, making it dry out even more. Keep your temp warm (not scorching) instead.

Pro tip: If you're suffering from super dry skin, try a lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda. This can restore your skin's natural oils and give you that super-soft feel you want.  

4. Turn on that humidifier.
Sure, you may only use it when you're sick, but humidifiers can be a girl's best friend when it comes to those dry, winter months. A humidifier helps keep moisture in the air so that your skin won't dry out.  

5. Add a lip scrub to your routine.
Keeping a high-moisture lip balm on you at all times isn't a bad idea. But if Chapstick alone isn't doing the trick, invest in a lip scrub that will help exfoliate the dry, dead skin off your lips and make way for healthy skin again.

Pro tip: Use your toothbrush to brush the dead skin off your lips when you're feeling super dry.  

6. Swap makeup remover for a cream cleanser.
While makeup remover wipes may be the easiest option, they can actually dry out your skin. Choose a cream cleanser that will clear off your makeup and moisturize your skin.

7. Protect your skin from the harsh winter weather.
When in doubt, cover up. Load up with a hat, scarves and gloves to protect your skin from cold, windy weather that can dry you out. It's easier to protect in the first place than to fix dry, scaly skin. 

Pro-tip: Use sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, and sunscreen can help fight damage before it happens.

8. Change up your cleanser.
Acne cleanser is meant to strip your skin of acne-causing oils. If you have dry skin, however, you may be causing more breakouts and dry skin with a cleanser that's too harsh. Rather than continuing with your cleanser with harsh ingredients like salicylic acid, try a more gentle cleanser that can keep your skin glowing and soft all season long.  

Do you suffer from dry skin? Let us know if you've tried any of these methods for softer skin in winter in the comments below!

We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Linda Horn | 12/10/2019