Health Coach Corner by Maria Hicks

I know we have all experienced this… dry, flaky, itchy skin. It may even crack and bleed and become very painful. Yes, I am talking about dry winter skin! Here are 10 of my favorite tips for healthy winter skin. Through researching everyday health online, & webMD… I found 10 really great tips for healthier, happier winter skin. Personally, I can vouch for a humidifier and the effectiveness. My first purchase was last winter and I used it all winter long – and I wondered “Why haven’t I always used a humidifier in the winter?” It really worked to add moisture to my bedroom and worked wonders in helping with my dry, itchy winter skin. Try some of these great tips:

1. Invest in a humidifier. Using a humidifier in your home or office will add moisture to dry winter air and help keep your skin hydrated.

2. Lower the thermostat. When it's chilly outside, what's the first thing you want to do? Crank up the heat! But central heat can make the air in your house even drier.

3. Skip hot showers. Although it may be tempting to warm up with a long, steamy shower, hot water dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils. Instead, take a 5- to 10-minute lukewarm shower (or bath).

4. Choose cleanser wisely. The wrong soap can worsen itchy, dry skin. For instance, steer clear of regular bar soaps, since they tend to contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. Instead, start washing with a fragrance-free, moisturizing cleanser or gel.

5. Modify your facial skin care regimen for the season. During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and apply toners and astringents sparingly, if at all.

6. Moisturize frequently. Maintain healthy skin by moisturizing after washing up.

7. Apply sunscreen — even in winter. It is still important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays on cold, dreary days in winter.

8. Wear appropriate clothing. Many cold-weather fabrics can aggravate dry winter skin. Protect your hands from cold winter air with gloves or mittens. Remember to choose a pair that won’t irritate your skin

9. Eat right and stay hydrated. Sometimes when skin is very dry, it can be helped by foods or supplements that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil. Drink plenty of water to hydrate dry skin!

10. Change out of wet clothes quickly. Wearing wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin and cause itchiness. Be sure to remove wet gloves, socks, and pants as soon as possible.