Don’t give up on skin during the colder months ahead
(BPT) – During the fall, when temperatures drop, skincare steps that were crucial during the hot summer months can often be overlooked because skin isn’t as exposed. Instead of waiting until skin is uncomfortably dry and itchy, make sure you’re moisturizing every day so skin stays soft, smooth and supple. And with all of the gatherings and parties that happen through fall and winter, you want to feel comfortable and confident in whatever you wear – whether it’s a short cocktail dress or a sleeveless top.
So, if you’re the type to hide red, flaky skin under layers of clothing every fall and winter, consider these simple tips that will have you prepared to bare your arms and legs during one of the biggest party seasons.
* Stop the scratching – With dry air comes dry skin, which can cause irritating itchy spots. Scratching those spots damages the skin and leaves red welts amongst the white scaly patches. Add a little moisture into the air at home using a humidifier, especially in the bedroom where you sleep at night. Research by the University of Minnesota found that if the outdoor temperature is between zero and 40 F, and the indoor temperature is set at 70 F, the relative humidity level indoors should be between 30 and 40 percent. Your skin, hair and sinuses will notice the extra humidity indoors, helping you to feel more comfortable in your skin.
* Moisturizer is key– Although a simple step, moisturizing is often overlooked. But you’d be surprised how applying a layer every day can make you feel more comfortable and confident. “With all the parties during fall and winter, you don’t have time to sacrifice fashion because of poor skincare choices,” shares FashionIndie.com blogger Beca Alexander. “There’s no better feeling than flaunting your legs in the perfect little black dress. Every day, I apply NIVEA Extended Moisture Body Lotion. It keeps my skin so moisturized and absorbs quickly. I also make sure to apply it to my arms and then spritz on my perfume – it helps the scent last!” -Areas to remember moisturizing include the elbows, feet and neck, as these areas build up a tough layer of skin when dried out.
* Add a bit of coloring – Self-tanning product technology has improved greatly over the years, and allows women to give their skin a hint of color without exposing it to any UV rays. After moisturizing, carefully apply a spray or cream tanner to the skin, being sure to thoroughly wash your hands and wrists once finished. Apply lightly and work in layers, so you don’t overdo it with too much coloring.
* Cater to special features – Lips, eyes and the nose are often affected by the colder temperatures more than the rest of the body. Be sure to give these features of your face loving attention with extra moisturizing products like lip balm and ointment during the winter months. Also be sure to cover your face while outside with scarves to help prevent additional damage from the cold wind.
By maintaining your skin’s moisture as much as possible, you will feel much more comfortable and know that you can show off your beauty, even as the temperatures drop and the air gets drier.
