Skin Care In The Winter!

Come winter its all about chilling winds and dipping temperatures. Heating systems work overtime and all this leaves you with dry and flaky skin. This is a signal for you to take more care of your skin than ever and provide it with extra nourishment to counter the effects of the chill.nnThe skin forms the protective outer covering of the body that defends the inner layers from any external agents that may cause harm. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of epidermis, which is the outermost tissue of the skin. Therefore the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum comprises of dead cells and sebaceous glands that secrete body oil to keep skin moist and smooth. Natural oils compensate for all the water lost by the body in due course of the day.nnTherefore, this layer of the body should be kept moisturized all through so that the skin becomes smooth and soft. However, when the temperature dips down, with the chilly winds outside and the artificial heaters inside, the skin is succumbed to sudden temperature changes. The cool winds already make the skin dry and flaky and the indoor heating agents further dries up the skin. And excessive drying of skin leads to itching, cracking of thick skin at heels and in extreme cases even blisters.nnAlong with a heating agent, also use a room humidifier at nights so as to balance the dryness effect at your home or apartment. It circulates moisture in the air and purifies the refreshes stale air.nnBut the best way to protect your skin from the extreme effects of winter is by keeping it hydrated and moisturized.nn• Don’t stick to the light weight moisturizer or cream that you use in summer. Winter demands extra care and nourishment, and that, you can supply only by using creamier and heavier moisturizers. But do keep your skin type in mind while using heavier skin products lest it makes the skin oily and prone to acne. The moisturizer should completely disappear upon application and should contain natural antioxidants and emollients in addition to vitamin A, C and E.nn• Moisturize your full body and apply generous amounts of moisturizers on areas that are exposed like your hands and feet. You sure can protect your body against the rough weather by stacking on layers of clothing but your hands and feet are out and exposed no matter the gloves and socks. So, dab on a heavier cream and moisturizer there.nn• Vaseline is probably the best remedy for skin woes in winters but its greasiness becomes a bit too much. However, a sensible application of Vaseline may get you the best results. Just after you have had bath and head for the bed, apply a little Vaseline on your feet and cover them up in socks. This will lock in the moisture and soften your feet during the course of night.nn• Even though you might not feel like but maintain the summer trend of drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day. Water eliminates all the impurities in your system and also keeps the skin from drying.nn nn