Dry skin goes hand in dry, itchy hand with Old Man Winter, but he is not the sole culprit. As we age, our bodies produce fewer oils to protect and soothe our skin, hair and nails. This reduction of natural hydration results in itchy, flaky skin, dull hair, brittle nails and cracked cuticles — not pretty and definitely not comfortable. Cold temperatures and dry environments aggravate the condition. However, a variety of methods can help us protect and nourish our bodies.

SKIN — Although they sound like a great idea, long, hot showers and baths actually dry out the skin. Use lukewarm water and spend less time in the tub. Try a soap-free cleanser and do not overscrub the skin. Pat (don't rub) the skin dry and immediately apply a rich, creamy moisturizer; avoid fragranced lotions, as they are more drying. Dr. Moeller recommends using Glytone body lotion and Dermalogica body hydrating cream for dry skin.

Throughout the day, use lotion to soothe hands, elbows and other dry patches, especially after washing hands. At night, use a humidifier in your bedroom (nourishes your skin and helps keep sinus issues at bay). Facials and peels geared toward dry skin issues can benefit winter skin, as well. The Skin Enhancement Center offers and Environmental Control facial and Glycolic peel that are ideal for treating dry skin.

“Dry skin not only makes skin look older and more wrinkled, it increases the chance of skin infections,” said Christopher A. Moeller, M.D.

Your lips need pampering, too. Unfortunately, licking your lips frequently only exacerbates the dryness. Instead, apply lip balm with petrolatum, and/or glycerin (steer away from products containing alcohol).

HAIR — Daily shampooing strips hair of natural oils that protect your hair and scalp. Try washing your hair less frequently – every other day is plenty. Moisturize your locks with a conditioner geared toward extra-dry hair; try a hair mask every week or two to boost moisture. Blow-dry your hair less often, if possible, and for shorter periods of time — air-dry your hair as much as possible before using a blow-dryer. Limit the use of products containing alcohol, and stretch the time between visits to the colorist.

NAILS — Gone are the long, strong nails of summer. When winter zaps moisture from your skin and hair, nails need added protection, too. Keep nails trimmed and moisturized. Rub moisturizers directly into the nails and cuticles at every application. Special cuticle oil can help prevent cuticles from cracking and is also beneficial for the nail bed.

Also, remember to hydrate your body from the inside. Moisturizers do a great job as barriers to the elements, but well-hydrated organs (your internal organs, brain and the largest organ of all — your skin) will thank you for those eight or so glasses of water per day.

The
Women's Fair

Come visit us at the Women's Fair at Booth C5, Feb. 15 – 17, Century II Expo Hall. For more information, visit womensfair.com.