Oh that Winter Skin.....

Our skin hates it. Cold dry air, friction that comes from wearing heavier clothing. Indoor heating....these all can make your skin dry, itchy and prone to cracks. How do you keep yourself from drying out this winter? Since I'm certain that I'm not the only person who experiences this, I thought I would pass along these 10 tips for this winter so maybe we can all reap the benefits of softer, smoother skin.

1. Add a humidifier to your bedroom.
2. Don't take long, hot showers and baths. You'll wash away the skins natural oils. Keep bathing to 10 minutes, use just warm water, keep the doors closed to lock in humidity and skip the fancy soaps (they can be drying) in favor of a mild, moisturizing, scent-free cleanser.
3. Moisturize your skin after bathing while it's still damp. Reapply as necessary.
4. Continue to use sun screen, even through the winter.
5. Don't lick your lips. Lips are prone to chapping because they don't have sweat or oil glands. Licking makes it worse! Petroleum jelly or lip balm works well.
6. Wear gloves when washing dishes or cleaning (OR have your husband do it!)
   
7. If hands or feet become extremely dry try slathering on a heavy lotion at night and wear cotton socks or gloves to bed. Treat cracked heals with a moisturizer containing lactic acid or urea. If the problem is severe, see your dermatologist.
8. Wear soft clothing next to your skin (I think they should make silk long underwear!)
   
9. Use unscented fabric softeners. Perfumes and chemicals can be drying. (But they smell so NICE! I don't think I can do this one.)
   
10. Leave your electric blanket turned "OFF". It will suck the moisture from your skin as you sleep. (Then what is the point of having one?)
    

Personally, I love Eucerin Calming Creme. I've never experience a lotion that works as well at this does!