Banish dry skin: 7 tips for moisturizing during a harsh winter

The cold weather can take its toll on our skin. The cold air outside and central heating indoors can strip moisture from our pores, causing itchy and parched skin. Your wool-blends and knits are not the only items that should get heavier in the colder months - your face moisturizers should too, to protect your skin against the elements. With the right vitamins, oils and moisturizers, your skin will stay healthy during winter.

1. Avoid hot water

On cold days, you may want to soak in a hot bath or stand in a hot shower to get warm, but this may dry out your skin by breaking down the lipid barrier in your skin, makes it easier for it to lose moisture. Taking warm or lukewarm baths and showers are best for preventing dry skin.

2. Eat healthy fats

The next time you grocery shop, fill up your cart with foods containing omega-3, omega-6, and healthy fats such as fish, nuts, olive oil, flax, sardines and avocados.

3. Stay hydrated

Drinking water is more important than ever during winter, keeping you hydrated and helps the body in many of its functions. For extra soft and smooth skin, add some slices of cucumber and lemon to your water.

4. Take vitamin C

Vitamin C can help boost the body’s production of collagen, a protein that maintains skin and other connective tissues. Citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C and minerals such as potassium and calcium. Leafy greens are also a great source of vitamin C.

5. Use natural oils

Not only are natural oils healthy to consume, they can help moisturize and soothe rough skin. Use natural oils such as olive, grape seed or coconut. A great way to use them is to add a few drops to your lukewarm bathwater, or apply a thin layer to the body after showering, but wear old pajamas afterward as it may stain your clothes.

6. Supplements

Skin that lacks essential fatty acids can be dry all year round. Boost the oils under your skin by taking fish oil supplements. Rich in omega-3, fish oil makes joints feel better and skin look younger and fresher. It also prevents hair loss. For the best and fastest results, take three supplements daily.

7. Use creams

If you use a lightweight lotion during warmer months, use creams in winter, which tend to moisturize better in colder weather. Creams that contain vitamin C can help manage antioxidant damage. For extra hydration, add a few drops of natural oils such as jojoba or grape seed to your moisturizer. At night, use a concentrated cream so it penetrates deep into the skin and leaves it soft and supple the next morning.

Recommended day creams (face):
L’Occitane, Shea Protective Cream SPF 20 $42
Bobbi Brown, Hydrating Face Cream $58

Recommended night creams (face):
Bobbi Brown, Hydrating Intense Night Cream $64
La Mer, Crème de la mer $310

Recommended day & night creams (body):
Aquaphor, Healing Ointment $9
Nivea, Body Crème $7