Prevent dry skin this winter with these dermat-recommended ways

Come winter, skin problems begin to gather steam. As the air temperature drops, so do humidity levels, which reduce moisture from your skin cells. Combine that with chilly wind and indoor heat, both deplete your protective skin barrier, making it harder for skin to stay hydrated. Therefore, your skin turns dry, patchy, flaky, and itchy. And if you’re prone to eczema or rosacea, winter can exacerbate those conditions. 

However, there’s nothing to worry about as the season is just changing and you can find the solution right in your kitchen cabinet! So instead of spending big bucks on expensive face and hand creams and moisturizers, it’s better to go the natural way. 

Let’s find out the remedies that Dr Rashmi Ravindra, Consultant – Dermatology and Cosmetology, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru, suggests for HealthShots readers: 

1. Include turmeric

Good old turmeric not just adds colour and flavour to your favourite curries, but does a lot more than that. Dr Ravindra says, “Turmeric has curcumin as an active compound and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.” It helps neutralize the free radicals and this helps in the treatment of dry skin.

For topical application on the face, mix honey, milk and turmeric and apply this mixture on the face once a week. This is also beneficial to skin in reducing uneven tone and acne scars.

2. Use natural body lotion

Exposure to the cold weather makes skin dry and patchy. Therefore, you need a body moisturiser to combat the dryness. “A natural body lotion can have a combination of shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil, aloe vera gel, and beeswax,” suggests Dr Ravindra. 

Apply it immediately after bath and frequently if you have skin that’s too dry.

3. Use oil before a morning shower

Your skin naturally produces oil, which helps protect skin from moisture loss but everyday actions and the weather strip natural oils from your skin. Using oil can help restore skin’s sheen and protective moisture barrier. Coconut oil, olive, or castor oil may be good natural remedies for dry skin as long as you don’t have acne prone skin. 

4. Add winter skin friendly foods

Good hydration and nutrients intake can help protect skin in the winter months. Dr Ravindra suggests foods that should be added and avoided this winter. 

Foods to be added in winter:

• Seasonal fruits n veggies
• Green leafy vegetables
• Nuts and berries
• Jaggery

Foods to be avoided in winter:

• Packed fruit juices and soft drinks
• Reduce dairy products, cake and pastries
• Fried foods and junk food
• Refined flour

5. Drink hot water benefits

Dr Ravindra says, “Drinking hot or lukewarm water improves blood circulation, nourishes the skin-smooth and radiant skin, rejuvenates the hair, improves texture and accelerates hair growth.” 

Tips to care for your skin in winter

• Oil massage the skin at least 10 to 30 minutes before bath
• Take lukewarm water bath with mild soap
• Apply moisturizer immediately after bath and before bedtime
• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of lukewarm water
• Seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables intake adequately
• Reduce stress and have a sound sleep