As the weather gets cooler, you may notice your skin begins to dry out. During the colder months of the year, environmental humidity is low. In addition, we are more exposed to forced air from the wind or heat from indoors which causes lower humidity and leaves your skin feeling dry. Luckily, there are many ways that you can fight against this irritating situation. Here are 4 treatments for dry skin to try this fall and winter:
Running a Humidifier in Your Home
If you begin to notice that your skin or lips are becoming dry and fragile during the cold months, it may be time to purchase a humidifier for your home. Many heating units pump hot, dry air into your house in order to keep you feeling comfortable. While you will remain toasty warm, you may begin to notice your skin feeling dry and itchy. Using a humidifier daily helps to add moisture back into your home and can reduce the occurrence of dry and flaky skin.
Apply Chapstick or Carmex
One of the most common areas that people deal with dry skin is their lips. As the weather gets cold and the wind starts blowing, your lips can become so dry that they begin to crack and peel. In order to avoid this painful and irritating sensation, be sure to stock up on plenty of chapstick and Carmex. Applying chapstick is a good way to prevent chapped lips, while Carmex can also be used to relieve the pain of chapped lips. It is a moisturizing and soothing lip balm that contains several emollients that can soothe and soften your lips.
Use Body Creams and Lotions
As you probably know, one of the best treatments for dry skin is a good moisturizer. There are many great body creams and lotions on the market that can help alleviate the irritation of dry skin. For severe cases, you can try either Aquaphor or Vaseline to keep your skin hydrated. Petroleum jellies can also be used as a preventative to protect your skin from the dryness of winter in order to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh.
Limit Bath Time and Control Water Temperature
Since the colder months are the most common times of the year for dry skin, it is important to do what you can to avoid these issues before they occur. Your skin has natural oils, and long showers and hot water can remove those oils that fight against dry skin. In order to combat this, it may be helpful to limit your shower time each day and switch to warm water instead of hot water. After you get out of the shower, take time to use a moisturizer or a damp cloth to wash your face thoroughly.
Are you looking for more ways to fight against dry and irritated skin this fall and winter? [Contact our Missouri pharmacy](/contact) and ask us about treatments for dry skin so your skin can feel more fresh and healthy. We look forward to hearing from you!
