Monday, November 14, 2011

Anti Aging 101: Winter Skin Care Tips

Dry skin is one of the classic signs of skin aging. As we age, our skin loses its natural oils which help in maintaining the moisture content of our skin. As those oils slowly get depleted, the skin becomes dry and eventually becomes leathery and very rough in texture. Dry skin can happen any time during the year, but it is most common during the winter season. During winter, low temperatures, cold winds and low humidity strips off the natural lipid layer of the skin which prevents the skin from drying out. Furthermore, furnaces and fireplaces also suck out our skin's moisture content. This is why it is really quite a challenge to keep a well moisturized and hydrated skin during this time of the year. With this, let me share to you some tips on how to add moisture to your skin and how to keep it locked in this winter.

1. Avoid bathing in hot water. I know it is very tempting to bathe or dip on a tub of hot water during the harsh winter weather. But, did you know that hot water strips off the skin's moisture? This rule also applies to hand washing as well. It is best to use lukewarm water rather than hot water when taking a shower and washing your hands.

2. Avoid bathing frequently. Water, be it cold, warm, lukewarm or hot can actually dry out the skin, so it is best to take a quick bath once a day. Frequent hand washing can also dry out the skin, but of course you can't limit hand washing so just make sure you moisturize your hands after every wash. This winter, it is all about making your contact with water short and sweet.

3. After pat drying your body with your towel, immediately lather up with a rich lotion so that it gets absorbed by the skin. Your pores are still open after taking a bath so it's important to moisturize immediately so that it can be effectively absorbed by your skin.

4. Drink lots of water. Usually we forget that drinking lots of water during the winter season is as important as drinking lots of water during the summer season. It is very important to drink lots of water during the winter season because the skin tends to get easily dehydrated. Winter air is drier which makes our body lose more water, so drink up.

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