Keeping skin from becoming itchy and flaky in the winter can seem like an impossible task. You might find yourself applying moisturizer several times a day with little improvement. The appearance and health of our skin is often a reflection of our daily habits. Following these tips year-round will keep you glowing in the winter.
Good Nutrition
A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can be beneficial to your overall health so it’s no surprise that it can improve your skin. Antioxidants are known to help fight against free radicals that cause skin to age faster. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is always a good idea for overall health, why not enjoy the added benefit of healthier skin?
A few foods that are excellent for your skin include:
- Leafy green vegetables
- Berries
- Tomatoes
- Carrots
UV Protection
Although you may prefer to spend more time indoors from December to March you still need to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Be especially careful when participating in winter sports because snow can reflect the sun’s rays. Reapply sunscreen just as you would spending time on the beach. And don’t forget your lips! Choose a lip balm that contains SPF to protect this sensitive part of the face.
Avoid Long Hot Showers
You may be tempted to indulge in long hot showers this winter but if you suffer from dry skin you may want to keep it short. Hot water and soap can strip away the skin’s oil barrier, allowing moisture to escape. To protect skin try limiting showers to 10 minutes or less, use a gentle scent free cleanser and apply moisturizer immediately after each shower.
Ceramides
Ceramides have become a popular ingredient in many skincare products and can also be taken as a supplement. Found in the epidermis layer of skin, ceramides prevent water loss and act as a barrier against microorganisms. Ceramides in the skin begin to decline with age leaving skin less hydrated. Clinical studies have shown that Lipowheat®, a natural vegetarian source of ceramides, can improve skin hydration by 65%.
Krill Oil
When it comes to nourishing skin from the inside essential fatty acids are an excellent choice. In addition to many other health benefits, polyunsaturated fats like Omega-3s and Omega-6s help keep skin hydrated. If you aren’t including foods like mackerel, flax seeds or walnuts in your diet then you may want to consider a supplement. Krill oil has also been shown to reduce inflammation which improves the overall appearance of skin.
