Friday 19 / April / 2024
Winter months can really throw in a challenge for those battling dry skin. Dry skin has its own set of problems – peeling skin, redness and the annoying fine lines that creep up when your foundation isn’t ‘hydrating’ enough. Here’s what you need to do and you’ll be sailing through just fine.
1. Choose lukewarm water for bath – We all love hot water baths, especially during winters but if you’re going to end up with flaking skin after that, you’d rather opt for quick, lukewarm water showers instead. Dry skin problems tend to aggravate further when you expose it to hot water for long as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils even faster than warm water.
2. Moisturise right – Keeping the skin hydrated with creams, lotions and serums is obvious and we’re pretty certain you are doing that. What is also important here is when, how and what? Make sure to moisturise within five minutes of washing your face leaving the skin a little damp as you apply your moisturiser. Look for ingredients like ceramide, glycerin and mineral oils.
3.Don’t over-exfoliate – Exfoliation is necessary even if you have dry skin but it is imperative that you don’t use exfoliators that contain those coarse granules (honestly, it’s like sandpaper). Opt for exfoliators with alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta hydroxy acid (BHA).
4.Use face washes cautiously – Those infused with peppermint, eucalyptus or citrus might feel very refreshing but are more often than not better for those with oily skin than dry. Use unscented face wash that is mild instead.
5.Use sunscreens – Continuous exposure to the harmful rays of the sun is bad no matter what your skin type is. For those with dry skin, it results in the loss of the skin’s ability to retain water and that just makes things worse. And yes, that does contribute to wrinkles.
6.Antioxidants and Omega 3 – Keeping it short, this basically helps your body to produce healthy cells. Berries, beetroot, tomatoes (think red) and several pulses are a great source of antioxidants while salmon and cod liver oil are an excellent source of omega 3.
7.Get a humidifier – If the air is dry, you’re bound to start feeling the discomfort of dry skin. Get a humidifier in the room to maintain the hydration levels at home. You’d be surprised to see the change.
8.Home remedies – There are a bunch of things you can do at home. From oatmeal baths to the use of coconut oil and petroleum jelly, there are a number of easily available alternatives that can be used to combat dry skin.
(Antara Bose is a model turned fashion and beauty consultant. A popular blogger, anchor, and voice over artist, she maintains a deep connection with the local fashion industry and is passionate about discovering and celebrating aspiring talent as well as promoting animal rights. For fashion updates with a side of humour and sarcasm follow Antara on instagram @antarabose and on Facebook: Antara Bose.)
