National Winter Skin Relief Day is an annual event that encourages individuals to consider how their skin is handling the harsh winter weather. Created by the makers of CeraVe Skincare, it is celebrated on January 8th and works to bring awareness to all the extra attention winter skin needs to stay healthy. Winter weather is indicative of dropping temperatures and moisture in the air decreasing. When moisture is lower, skin tends to suffer. Especially with wind chill! So how can you help protect, heal, and pamper your skin?
- Avoid the temptation to take long, hot showers; heat strips skin of its natural oils and causes inflammation. This inflammation causes skin cells to swell up, and they then dry loose and poorly, leading to cracks in the skin. Take lukewarm showers instead; you get the warmth you cherish without causing damage to your delicate skin.
- Avoid harsh cleaners and DON’T scrub! Harsh cleansers mess with the pH balance of your skin, further drying it out. Scrubbing can cause additional surface damage, and irritate your skin if you’re particularly sensitive. Instead, use cleansers that are all-natural or at least contain a minimum amount of harsh chemicals like perfume (often labeled as ‘parfum’). Allow the natural lather of bar soaps like oatmeal or tea tree (amongst MANY others) to do the work so you don’t scrub your skin raw.
- Post-shower, allow your skin to air dry if possible, or pat your skin dry with a soft towel. DON’T rub or scrub the towel over yourself; it will cause more irritation and inflammation. Post-drying is also the best time to put on moisturizer or lotion; be sure to keep the bathroom door closed so the humidity produced by your warm shower doesn’t escape.
- When dressing for winter weather, wear layers! The layer against your skin should be made of natural fibers like flannel or cotton. This will keep your skin from being irritated by the rubbing of multiple layers, and assist with wicking away any sweat to keep from breaking out in heat rash or other skin irritations. Layers not touching your skin should be heat-trapping or more effective against cold weather.
Looking for a low-cost DIY recipe that will take care of your skin regardless of location? Try the recipe below to make a natural Epsom salt body butter:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coconut oil or shea butter
- 2 tsp Epsom salt
- 1 – 3 drops essential oil of your choice (not required)
Directions:
Mix the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Apply a thin layer to your skin by massaging in circular motions. Be sure to store the remainder in an airtight container!