Why do we suffer from dry, flaky skin during the winter months? If so, you are not alone. Up to 1 in 5 people report having winter skin. Among the many causes of winter skin are: decreased humidity levels, indoor heating, lower temperatures, and not using the proper moisturizing cream. The number one cause of dry, winter skin is the drop in humidity levels in the air. In some places, a typical winter day has only about 25% as much humidity as a summer day. This difference in air moisture carries over when you go inside. The air in your home is just as moisture deprived as the air outside. Clearly, winter skin care must be a priority. The good news is that there are almost as many ways to combat winter skin as there are causes of it.

Winter Skin Tip 1

Bypass baths. Hot baths rob your skin of much needed moisture. Rather than give up your bath altogether, turn down the temp of the water a little and add some oatmeal. Oatmeal soothes the skin and acts as a natural skin exfoliation system.

Winter Skin Tip 2.

There are few things more relaxing than a warm, quiet bath on a cold winter night. You already know that your skin will benefit from turning down the temperature of the water a bit, but here is an easy way to make that bath even more therapeutic. Just mix a couple cups of powdered milk with almond, lavender, or peppermint oil and a drop or two of your favorite perfume. This natural dry skin care will leave your skin feeling soft and fresh. After your bath, apply a skin moisturizer to your skin.

Winter Skin Tip 3.

As if you needed another reason to put out that cigarette. Here it comes. Smoking has various harmful effects on the skin and dryness is one of them. Nicotine shrinks the blood vessels in the skin, making it more difficult for your skin to retain moisture. The drying effects of nicotine also lead to wrinkles and leathery looking skin. Quit the habit and your skin will thank you for it.

Taking care of dry, sensitive skin in winter

Winter Skin Tip 4.

Adjust the temperature. As much as we would like to, we can't control freezing cold temperatures outside. We can, however, adjust the temperature on the thermostat in our house. Air that is heated by a furnace is dry and can irritate your skin. Here is a quick comparison to give you an idea. The average humidity level in the Sahara Desert is about 25%. Some homes get as low as 10% humidity level during the winter months. Every temperature less on your thermostat means more moisture in the air and fresher, healthier skin.

Winter Skin Tip 5.

Moisturize! As obvious as it seems, many people do not moisturize as often as needed to keep their skin soft and healthy. A good natural skin care product is an indispensable tool in your arsenal against dry skin. It is recommended to use a skin moisturizer 3 or 4 times daily. Rub in a natural moisturizer in the morning, at night, and any time your skin feels tight or dry. Applying moisturizer right after you bathe or shower will ensure that your skin will absorb moisture from the water.

Winter Skin Tip 6.

Seize sunscreen. Nothing new here. Sunscreen is vital for hydrated skin. UV rays can harm your skin in the winter as well as in the summer. Sunscreen will protect your skin from the drying effects of the sun and provide additional moisture.