Dry Skin Problems Made Worse in the Canadian Winter

Ever wonder why it’s so hard to keep your hands moisturized during the cold, winter months? This has to do with the fact that our hands contain fewer oil glands and have thinner skin than most other parts of our body.

To combat dry hands caused by the cold, always wear gloves outdoors, preferably cotton-based ones to avoid irritation to the skin sometimes caused by wool. Also, ensure you have some moisturizer handy (see what we did there?) for on-the-go applications.

Are you washing your face correctly?

All of that cold air is likely wreaking havoc on your already parched and sensitive skin. Try a DIY steam at home to help treat pesky dry patches appearing on your face. The simplest way to do this is by (carefully) pouring boiling water into a large bowl and covering your head with a towel as you allow the steam from the water to work its magic on your skin. Take advantage of those opened pores and follow this with a gentle exfoliant, finishing off with a rich cream to seal in moisture.

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You may not realize it, but the skin on your scalp is no more protected from exposure to the elements than any other part of your body. As a result, the winter months can cause your scalp to become dry and flaky, resulting in dandruff and other conditions like dermatitis. To combat this, several over-the-counter dandruff shampoos are available – but be sure to mix up the brands you use to avoid your scalp becoming immune to the same product over time.

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Does it feel as though your moisturizer just isn’t working for you? It could be that you’re using the wrong one. Instead of using petroleum-based creams (which tend to dry skin out in the winter), look for creams that boast natural and oil-based ingredients to aid in sealing in moisture.

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It’s tempting to turn up the heat on those cold, winter nights, but keep in mind that the warm central air pumping through your home is also working to dry out the air around you. Instead, opt for a temperature setting that meets your skincare needs and layer up if you still feel cold.

You’ve set your temperature at a reasonable setting, but you’re still feeling the impact of the cold weather on your skin – what gives? Combat the moisture loss in your home by placing a humidifier in your bedroom. Not only will it aid in the prevention of dry skin, but humidifiers have also been known to prevent snoring and prevent the risk of viruses and infections that thrive in dry environments.

When dry, patchy skin turns to flaking-skin, try using a 1% hydrocortisone cream, followed by a rich cream to restore any moisture loss.

If your skin is starting to look dull and patchy, consider your daily water intake: are you keeping hydrated or have you been substituting coffee and tea in place of your daily H20? If cool water just won’t satisfy you in the cold months, try some warm water with lemon and honey. Not only will it help to keep you hydrated, but for those nursing a cold or cough, the lemon and honey will help to soothe your throat.

Planning a trip this winter? Don’t let travel impact your skincare routine. Check out these celebrity travel beauty secrets for some inspiration.

We tend to forget that our feet, though covered up by socks and boots in the winter, need some TLC in the winter, too. Show those dry heels some love with a warm soak before bed, followed by a generous lathering of rich cream or balm. Trap all that moisture in overnight with some thick socks that you can wear to bed. Trust us. Your feet will thank you in the morning.

Does it feel like any bit of contact on your skin is causing you to itch and squirm? It may be the fabrics and cleansers that you’re using. Prevent irritations and breakouts triggered by harsh cleansers and detergents that are heavy in chemicals. Also, opt for cotton-based fabrics and hypoallergenic products to avoid flare-ups for sensitive skin.

Another tip to bring your skin back to life? Make sure you're on a healthy diet that includes nutrients like vitamin C and zinc, which aid in the production of collagen and elastin. Also, mix some flaxseed into your daily smoothie to help soften and smooth your complexion.

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Though it may feel great to start your day in a steamy shower, this is one of the worst things you can do for your skin in the winter months. While the hot water may feel great, it’s actually working to strip moisturizing natural oils from your skin, leaving you prone to redness, irritation and breakouts. Opt for lukewarm showers instead, limiting your time and following it up with a generous application of rich, moisturizing cream.

Are you well into the winter, but still following the same skincare regiment from the summer? Get with the program and swap out those summer favourites for products that are specifically designed for the colder season. This means scaling back on harsh anti-acne products and stocking up on moisture-rich masks and hair treatments.

Need some help? We’ve got you covered with our guide on how to transition your skincare routine from the warm to colder months.

Unlike other areas of the skin, lips do not contain oil glands, making them more susceptible to drying out. Couple this with the common issue of constantly licking your lips in the wintertime and you’ve got a recipe for a parched pout. To avoid dry and chapped lips, apply a moisturizing balm daily. For stubborn lips that easily chap, use a gentle exfoliating lip scrub in the evenings to remove any excess dead skin, applying a thick balm or jelly after, letting it absorb overnight.

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To prevent fine lines and sagging skin – not to mention a wealth of other very serious health risks – you’ll want to apply a SPF year-round. Regardless of the amount – or lack of – sunlight you’re seeing each day, studies continue to warn us against the effects of exposure to UV rays. While the summer months allow for lightweight formulas, your skin isn’t able to produce as much in natural oils during the winter, meaning you’ll want to stock up on an SPF that protects and moisturizes at the same time.

Make SPF one of your beauty resolutions to keep in 2019.