Dry skin is no fun, and in the cold months, it typically gets worse. Humidity is low in Winter, and the moisture in the air is what helps keep your skin from drying out. At AFC Urgent Care Worcester, we are here to provide you with all the information you need to feel comfortable this season. These wellness tips are applicable to help families with small children and grandparents feel their best all season long. 

In your home

Since dry air is a major reason for dry skin, add some moisture to the air! Placing a humidifier in your bedroom at night can help repair your skin while you sleep. Keep the heat set to low while sleeping also to help keep your skin from drying out. Use a laundry detergent that does not have any fragrance or dyes and avoid using fabric softener. The chlorine from sitting in a hot tub can dry out your skin, as well as sitting by a fireplace. 

On your skin

Of course, using a moisturizer is the fastest way to add hydration back into your skin, but the type you use can either help or hurt you in the long run. Using a cream rather than a lotion on your face can keep your skin hydrated all day. Additionally, avoid any harsh cleansers that have fragrances. Instead, go for more gentle formulas and a mild soap like Dove. Lightly exfoliating your face once a week can help these cleansers and moisturizers do what they need to, as well. 

When showering, try and use lukewarm water instead of hot. Hot water strips your body of the oils that are needed to stay hydrated. Once the shower is over, put a body moisturizer on quickly after to lock in the moisture while your pores are still open. 

In your diet

Increasing fats in your diet can also help your skin during the Winter season. Adding foods like avocado, nuts, and olive oil can help your skin produce the oils it needs. Increase your daily intake of water. Avoid alcohol, greasy foods, and caffeine, as these are known to strip your body and cause dehydration. 

Other tips

• Avoid all fragrance and alcohol-based soaps, cleansers, and moisturizers. Only give your body what it needs, which is natural oils like coconut oil. 
• Unless you are in the healthcare field, avoid using hand sanitizer. Wash your hands instead, and immediately apply hand cream after drying.
• Do not scrub your skin when it’s wet. Scrubbing instead of patting not only ages your skin, but it strips it from the essential oils that are naturally produced.