When the mercury drops, in a very short time, the skin can be particularly attacked and irritated. Hydration, diet, washing… Many small actions can be taken to protect against it.
For several days, after abnormally mild weeks, the cold is in order and it should persist for a while. And these winter temperatures make life difficult for our skin. Redness, tightness, chapped lips, itching or even cracking… Cold air quickly attacks the epidermis.
In winter, to maintain body temperature and protect vital organs, the body will divert blood circulation. The result: the surface of the skin is fresher and more fragile.
However, it’s not just the cold and the wind that irritate the skin. Temperature variations and the dry, hot and poorly ventilated air of heated interiors do not improve the condition of your skin. BFMTV.com draws up a list of good and bad things to know to take care of it during the winter.
Hands and face very exposed to cold
During the winter season, the face is on the front line against the cold. It is therefore advisable to apply a moisturizer at least once a day, preferably after washing or in the morning, to protect your face before facing the cold and the outside wind.
Many people are also prone to dry hands or even cracks and cracks forming on the hands which can be very painful. To protect against this, it is also recommended to have a moisturizing and restorative cream on hand.
In addition, avoid washing your hands for too long, especially with too hot water. If you have to handle harsh cleaning products or do the dishes, always wear gloves to protect your hands, as recalled by the site of the dermatological laboratory Bioderma.
When drying, be sure to dry well between your fingers and remove the rings to prevent water or soap from remaining there. In addition, prefer towels, paper or fabric, rather than electric hand dryers which dry out the skin even more. When venturing outdoors, protect your hands with gloves.
Hot showers to avoid
Even if it is tempting, on returning home after a cold day, to take a long hot shower, this gesture should be avoided if your skin is dry and uncomfortable because the hot water will attack it. However, it is not necessary to take a cold shower. Warm water will suffice.
Also be careful with the shower gel you use: some can irritate and dry out the skin. Dermatologists and pharmacists advise opting instead for surgras products with a neutral PH.
Coming out of the shower, especially for people who have severe itching, it is a good idea to hydrate yourself by applying a cream or milk to soften the skin.
Clothing and food
On a daily basis, small gestures can improve your well-being. For example, certain clothes can be avoided because rubbing can make itching worse. It is better to avoid underwear and clothing made of synthetic fibers and wool, prefer cotton, which is softer on the skin. In addition, clothing that is too tight can trigger irritation.
If you cover yourself too much, you can quickly sweat and if the sweat stays in contact with the skin for too long, the itching intensifies. Dressing warmly is important in winter, but be sure to wear layers so you can uncover easily.
At home, an atmosphere that is too dry and hot, especially at night in the bedroom, is bad for the skin. Remember to ventilate the rooms and, if necessary, humidify the air with a humidifier or simply a basin of water.
When your skin is dry, it is important to stay well hydrated by remembering to drink regularly and throughout the day. In addition, certain foods can also help: lipids, fatty acids, omega-3s, fruits and vegetables or oilseeds.
