As the temperature drops and the indoor heat cranks up, does your skin start to crackle like a fire? A fair-weather friend indeed, our skin detests the cold and shamelessly protests the sub-zero windchill with flaky patches, red blotches, and complexions resembling an alligator.
Here are some easy tips for keeping your skin smooth and supple and alligator-proof all winter long.
Turn it down a notch.
And we mean everything, from your skin care habits to the air temperature in your house. If your usual routine involves daily exfoliation, try limiting your exfoliating cleanser to once a week and using an oil-free, non-comedogenic product that cleans without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Cut your shower time down, too, and lower the water temperature so it’s not scalding, which is super drying to skin. Last, but not least, the ideal air temperature for your home is a balmy 68 degrees. Not too hot, not too cold.
Moisturize smart.
Your goal is to lock moisture in, which means applying moisturizer immediately after a shower when you’re damp, not bone dry. And keep it coming! Store your favorite lotion in your work bag or purse so you’re never without it. A lip balm is essential, too. Be sure to apply an SPF 30 or greater because the sun is still powerful and damaging to your skin in the frigid months.
Get help if you need it.
Some skin concerns call for a doctor. Flaky skin is a nuisance, but don’t ignore your skin if it becomes red, itchy, inflamed or bumpy. You could be suffering from an allergic reaction or a skin concern like psoriasis, which can be helped with prescription lotions and other medications.
Led by dermatologist Dr. Jeff Alexander, Skin Care Institute can help to restore health and balance to your skin and give you the tools to maintain its vibrance throughout the year. For more information, call 918.948.9639 or click here to request a consultation today.
