Your winter complexion is prone to problems – dehydrated skin caused by cold icy winds, central heating and low humidity. Dehydrated skin is different to ‘dry skin’ as a skin type – any skin type can become dehydrated. Dry skin types are likely to be worse in winter too because the outer layers of your skin (your epidermis) retain less water.
Dehydrated vs Dry
Dry skin has a lack of oil. Dehydrated skin feels tight and duller than usual. Whatever type of skin issue you have, moisture is key. Ignoring dehydrated skin can lead to more problems like:
- Cracked and flaking skin
- Itchiness
- Pronounced wrinkles
Dehydrated Skin – What Can You Do?
Don’t worry! There are ways to get your glow back.
- Make sure baths and showers are not too hot. It can be tempting to warm up in winter by running a boiling hot bath – but the hot water can do more damage than good.
- Have regular Microdermabrasion. Exfoliation in winter is still important. Remove any dead skin and rejuvenate the skin’s surface. Exfoliation helps with product absorption so your moisturiser will be able to help the skin more.
- Applying moisturisers while damp also helps with absorption. So moisturise straight after your bath or shower – this helps to lock in moisture.
- Pinch the skin to test for dehydration. If it does not remain in shape you are probably dehydrated.
- Consider investing in a humidifier. This will treat your environment and treat your skin at the same time. The air will stop pulling moisture from your skin.
- Don’t forget your diet. Drink plenty of water and eat healthy fats and oily fish like salmon and mackerel. When hydrated, our skin cells swell and wrinkles seem to diminish – so drink up!
Winter is particularly harsh on skin. The good news is it is only a temporary state – and a moisture-rich skincare routine will help treat dehydrated skin in winter.
