Winter months pose unique challenges every year and one has to be prepared for the same. The weather changes so rapidly that the body poses various health problems, if not taken proper care. As winters are turning colder, windier and drier, skin needs some extra protection from the environment.
According to Dr. Karuna Malhotra Cosmetologist & Homeopath Physician from Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic “the onset of severe winter brings along its own plethora of skin problems. With cold and dry weather dictating the season, it basically becomes compulsory to moisturize our skin more meticulously”.
The cosmetology market today is very competitive and flooded with a wide variety of day creams, night creams, body lotions and oils of various types.” In general, one must use the less greasy preparations like moisturizing creams or lotions during day and keep the greasy preparations like cold creams or Vaseline for overnight applications. All these cosmetics and lubricants will be more effective if applied on moist skin i.e. immediately after bath or after sponging the affected areas.
· Hands and feet need adequate lubrication during winter to prevent cracks and cuts. Soaking the feet in salt water followed by application of urea creams will be effective for cracked heels.
· Nail cuticles tend to become frayed and ragged during winter. Application of vaseline / cold cream at night will take care of this problem.
· Dry and cracked lips can be treated with application of glycerin or Vaseline.
· Hair and Scalp: Dandruff is a common problem in winter. Putting warm oil in scalp about half an hour before shampooing will help to soften the flakes.
· Patients with eczemas and psoriasis: Some skin diseases like endogenous eczemas and psoriasis tend to worsen during winter. For them it is advisable to minimize the use of soaps, and avoid direct contact of skin with woolen clothes.
· Elderly patients should avoid dry heat, like that due to room heaters, which may lead to severe itching of skin.
· Patients who are prone to cold induced diseases like chill blains, with painful swelling of fingers and toes, need special protective warm clothing like gloves, socks and avoidance of dipping hands in cold water.
She also shares few skin care tips one should opt during winter By Dr. Karuna Malhotra:
1. Stay Hydrated – first and foremost, no matter what always remember to drink one or two liters of water per day, Also, eat fruits and vegetables that are water based, such as apples, radish and cucumbers. These foods can help curb hunger and boost your water intake, to keep you healthy and hydrated all day.
2. Moisturizer – During winter, the outer layer of skin becomes very dry therefore it is important to keep the skin moisturized all the time. Even if one has oily skin light moisturizing is must after cleansing to keep the skin soft and supple.
3. Sunscreen mandatory – Many people believe that winter skin care doesn’t require sunscreen but little do they know that exposure to the sun can fasten ageing. Therefore, one must use a sunscreen 15 minutes before steping out in sun. Also you can mix plain glycerin with sunscreen, it reduces tanning also
4. Toning and cleansing – Do not wash your face often with soap. Make a daily regime of cleansing and toning. Use an Aloe Vera based toner as it has anti- oxidants properties and keeps your skin moisturized all the day.
