Top 10 Winter Skin Care Tips You Should Follow

1. Investing in a humidifier to maximize humidity

Using a humidifier at home or in the office will add moisture to the dry winter air and help keep your skin hydrated. Run a humidifier in the rooms where you spend the most time, including your bedroom.

2. Turn down the thermostat to prevent dryness

When it's cold outside, what's the first thing you want to do? Turn up the heat! But central heating can make the air in your home even drier. Try to set the thermostat to a cool but comfortable temperature (between 68 and 72°F) to keep your skin healthy. If you feel any sensitivity in your skin, make sure to consult best dermatologist.

3. Limit the length and temperature of showers.

It can be tempting to take a long, wet shower, but your skin will be much better served with a warm shower (or bath) for 5 to 10 minutes, as suggested by the AAD. You should also avoid using water that's too hot to wash your hands - if the water makes your skin red, it's too hot. Washing hands in cooler water appears to be as effective as hot water at killing germs and is less irritating to the skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2) And if you use a bathroom air dryer, use it until your hands are damp rather than perfectly dry.

4. Choose gentle, unscented cleansers.

The wrong soap can aggravate itching and dryness of the skin. For example, regular soap bars may contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. Instead, wash with a fragrance-free cleanser or moisturizing gel (and look for products specifically labeled "fragrance-free" because "unscented" products may actually contain fragrances). You can also prevent skin problems in the winter by using less soap in general. So limit your lather to necessary areas such as hands, underarms, genitals and feet.

5. Change your facial care regimen for the season.

During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers and apply tonics and astringents sparingly, if at all. Many astringents contain alcohol, which can further dry out your skin. When your skin is dry and itchy, AAD recommends that you stop using products containing alcohol and fragrances to help the skin retain its natural oils. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face.
And don't forget your lips. Applying a moisturizing balm (such as Vaseline or another ointment) can help heal dry, cracked lips and prevent chapping, according to AAD. (3) If, however, your lip product causes a tingling or prickling sensation, try switching to another product.

6. Moisturize frequently, especially your hands

Maintain healthy skin by moisturizing it after washing. " It is best to use a cream or ointment in winter. Lotions are best in hot, humid climates. And don't forget your hands," says Dr. Stein Gold. Hand washing, as the CDC notes, is vital, especially during cold and flu season. But, as Dr. Stein Gold points out, "Constant hand washing makes your hands take a hit.

Applying a hand cream after each wash can help, Gold adds. She also recommends wearing waterproof gloves when washing dishes or cleaning around the house.

7. Apply sunscreen - even on gray winter days

On winter days, snow reflects the sun's rays - up to 80%, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation - increasing the risk of exposure. (4) This means that whether you're on the slopes, playing in the snow or walking in a parking lot to run errands, it's just as important to apply sunscreen in the winter as it is in the summer.
Don't be fooled by the dark, dreary days of winter either. The sun's harmful UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause damage.
Before going outside, apply a broad-spectrum moisturizing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body.

8. Wear appropriate, comfortable, non-irritating clothing that is appropriate for your skin.

Many cold weather fabrics can aggravate dry skin in winter. "Prevent wool and rough clothing from touching your skin directly," says Stein Gold. "This can cause irritation and itching on dry skin."
Instead, wear light layers made of soft, breathable materials directly on your skin and then put on your heavier, warmer sweaters. Be sure to protect your skin.

9. Don't forget to eat well and stay hydrated.

"Sometimes, when skin is very dry, it can be helped by foods or supplements that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil," says Barbara R. Reed, MD, a dermatologist in private practice at the Denver Skin Clinic. "In most cases, however, it's important to help the skin hydrate from the outside.

10. Change wet clothing quickly to avoid itchy skin

Wearing wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin and cause itching. If gloves, socks and pants are wet, be sure to remove them as soon as possible.
If you are still experiencing dryness, discomfort and irritation after trying these tips for healthy skin, Stein Gold suggests that you use an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream. "If you don't see improvement in a few days, talk to your doctor," says Stein Gold. You may need a prescription moisturizer to overcome the drying effects of winter on your skin.
The proper exercise can help you out keep your skin fresh and healthy. Follow the proper running tips and be persistent in your workout.