Dry skin in winter is a total nightmare and it should not be ignored at any cost. If your skin feels harsh and itchy, seasonal changes are the biggest reason. The winter season demands for everyday skin care, or else it can lead to bleeding and scars on the skin. Patchy, dry skin may seem harmless, but it can cause discomfort and pain. This condition can create small cracks and redness on the skin. But what causes dry skin and is there any solution? Read further to find out the answers to these queries.
Major Causes of Dry Skin Patches
The changing weather is not the only cause for dry skin patches. It can happen due to various other reasons and some of the major causes are listed below.
- Chemicals in deodorants and soaps make your skin irritated, resulting in dryness.
- Genetics is another factor responsible for dry skin. Certain mutations in genes can reduce the production of the protein that hydrates the skin barrier.
- Temperature and humidity changes can strip the natural oils from the skin, which contribute to dry skin.
- Excessive exposure to heating sources like fireplaces or central heating systems in the winter can also cause skin scaliness.
7 Natural Remedies to Combat Dry Skin in Winter
Even though various factors lead to flaky skin, you can still achieve moisturized skin. You just need to try the nourishing natural remedies so that your skin does not dry out further. Here are 7 skin care remedies for dry skin that you can follow this chilly season.
1. Use Aloe Vera for Moisturization:
Many believe Aloe Vera is a panacea and there’s a reason for that. With antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, this plant is known for healing several health ailments. The gel inside its thorny leaves has mucopolysaccharides that restore moisture in the skin and ease irritation. Cut an Aloe Vera leaf and mash it to extract the gel. After refrigerating the gel, apply it on your skin and wait for few minutes. Once it dries out, rinse your skin with cold water.
2. DIY Hydrating Avocado Mask:
Avocado is a creamy fruit with bountiful skin benefits. The biotin present in avocados largely helps in nourishing dry skin. It contains vitamins C and E, plant sterols, and minerals, which altogether soothe inflammation and eliminate old skin cells. Take avocado powder, honey, and yogurt in a bowl and mix them well to make a paste-like consistency. Apply this combination of three amazing natural ingredients to your body to get a silky, smooth skin.
3.Consider an Oatmeal Bath:
Oatmeal is created by adding water or milk to the oats. Due to the colloidal properties in oatmeal, it acts as a protective barrier on the skin and locks moisture in it. Add oatmeal to luke warm water tub and soak in it for about 12-15 minutes. After that, pat your skin till until it feels damp.
4. Exfoliate with Amla and Sugar Scrub:
Amla or Indian gooseberry has long been known for its skin-boosting properties. Rich in vitamin C, this berry improves the skin barrier function and minimizes water loss through the skin to prevent dryness. Exfoliation can help a lot in getting rid of the scaly skin and for that, you have to prepare a scrub. Combine half a cup of amla powder, granulated sugar, and two tablespoons rose water. Use the mixture to scrub your skin and then, wash with water.
5. Slather Yourself with Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil possesses emollient properties, which fill the gap between skin cells and offer a smooth surface. Fatty acids in this oil improve the lipid content of the skin and nourish it. You can use this oil all over your body to retain moisture in the skin. For chapped hands and feet, apply coconut oil at night and cover them with gloves or socks.
6. Add Omega-3s to Your Diet:
Exposure to harmful elements can damage your skin and make it dry. Therefore, it becomes important to consume antioxidant-rich foods. Omega-3 fatty acids are loaded with antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage and boost cell regeneration. Some common foods that have high omega-3 fatty acid content include fish, nuts, seeds, and plant oils.
7. Cleanse Your Skin with Olive Oil:
Olive oil is both a natural moisturizer and a cleanser. Its mono-saturated fats seal the moisture in the skin and reduce dryness. Apply this oil to your skin and place a damp, warm cloth over it. Wait until it cools down and then, wipe away the oil. With olive oil cleansing, the dirt on the skin gets removed and your skin feels moist.
The Bottom Line
Winter season is the main culprit of dry skin and this condition becomes worse when you go out. A proper skin care regime can prevent irritation and improve skin health. Keep a few minutes of your day for cleansing and moisturising the skin. Put a little extra effort for your beauty and apply a face mask every weekend. A well-hydrated skin will boost your confidence and make you cheerful.
