Winter will set in, in a few days to rob all the moisture off your skin and leave it dry and flaky. So, it is essential to take skincare measures in order to reduce the winter assault and keep your skin from turning into a lustreless sandpaper. But, it is not winter yet, you say? Well, then here is what we say: ‘Prevention is better than cure.’
“It is surely beneficial for the skin if you start taking care of it from now on rather than wait for it to get dehydrated completely after winter sets in. One would have to spend more time and resources trying to undo whatever damage has been done, so it is better to begin your winter skincare regime now,” advises Dr Jaishree Sharad, cosmetic dermatologist and CEO of Skinfiniti Skin and Laser Clinic.
And, it is not one or two but a host of complications from top to toe, that people have to deal with.
Increase in dandruff, frizzy hair, dry and dull skin, cracked and peeling lips, cracks and fissures in palms and soles, among other things will make themselves visible when the temperature dips.
“Dryness is the main problem and the only way to deal with it is by moisturising the skin to keep it healthy. It is better to use a light moisturiser in the day and a heavy one at night, preferably with cocoa or shea butter. For those with oily skin type, a water or gel-based moisturiser is suitable,” explains Sharad.
While one should look for components like liquid paraffin, ceramide urea, squalene and petroleum jelly in moisturising creams, it is better to refrain from applying lip balms with fragrance especially mint or menthol. Sticking to good old ghee (or butter) for soft and healthy lips is the best nourishment for lips.
While it is important to focus on the things that should be done, one should also keep in mind the things that should not be done while taking care of the skin. Detailing about practices that are a strict no-no, Sharad says that taking hot and long showers to warm up your body against the chill is not advisable as it is sure to dehydrate the skin further. Also, replacing your soap bar with transparent shower gel is a must as the latter is a milder option.
Atopics i.e. those whose skin is sensitive and prone to allergies must go the extra mile to safeguard their skin. Pranit Farande, dermatologist in Fortis Hospital says, “I always tell my patients to go with medical moisturisers as these are adequately tested under strict regulatory norms. As atopics are prone to heightened itchy sensations, only mild mosturisers prescribed by the dermatologist should be used.”
Another manifestation that is common during winter is atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, that is sure to flare up if people opt to self-medication, warns Farande. “Atopic eczema is familial and even an allergic cold or asthma can lead to it. These symmetrical rashes appear on the shin, legs and arms. One should avoid using any anti-bacterial solutions in bathing water without the physician’s approval,” he advises. Further, woollen wear may aggravate irritation for atopic eczema sufferers, so it is best worn on top of cotton clothes.
Apart from the face, hands and legs, our hair is most exposed to the chill and dry climate, thereby increasing dandruff. “The scalp becomes dry, thereby increasing dandruff. Hair fall, breakage, split ends are other common problems during this season. Thus, to restrict dryness one should wash hair not more than twice a week and apart from shampooing and conditioning, using a leave-in conditioner helps in retaining moisture. Using olive/coconut/almond oil for massage before washing your hair is still an effective way to keep dryness at bay,” said Dr Priyanka Ghatge, dermatologist based in Kharghar. Ghatge adds that eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acid like flax seeds and fish will help in replenishing dry skin.
Donts
Do not go for toning during winter as astringents will cause further dehydration of skin
Do not blow dry or use iron and straighteners on your hair as it contributes to making it frizzy and oil less
Do not sit in a room with heaters or ACs for a long time
Do not use inferior quality woollen wear that may lead to itches
Do not self medicate in case of rashes. Always consult a dermatologist for treatment and approval of home remedies
Dos
Apart from cleansing and moisturising, apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 at regular intervals
Use lukewarm water for bathing in order to prevent extreme dryness
Apply moisturiser immediately after bath, when the skin is damp so that it is retained in the skin. The cram or lotion should be applied evenly all over the body
Increase the intake of water to keep your skin hydrated. Consumption of all types of dry fruits is good as they nourish skin. Foods rich in vitamins A and C like beetroot, carrot, papaya should be consumed as these are antioxidants that help in formation of new skin
Home-made items like milk cream and yogurt can be used to prevent tanning and cleansing respectively
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