Winter can be a magical time, but for many, it comes with unwelcome dryness. If you always find yourself dealing with flaky skin or uncomfortable dry eyes, it doesn’t have to be this way. Explore some easy ways you can tackle dryness this winter to keep your skin and eyes hydrated and healthy all season.
Say Goodbye to Winter Skin Woes
Winter brings along common skin problems like rough patches, itchiness, and redness. The culprit? Cold weather, low humidity, and indoor heating. There are many ways to treat specific winter skin issues, but our quick tips will help you get started.
Moisturize Frequently
Apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture. Opt for products containing hyaluronic acid—known for its powerful hydrating properties—and ceramides, which restore the skin’s protective barrier.
Avoid Hot Showers
While a steamy shower may feel great, hot water strips your skin of its natural oils. Stick to lukewarm water to keep your skin happy. Additionally, limit your shower time to no more than 10 minutes and pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it to avoid irritation.
Humidify Your Home
Invest in a humidifier to increase the humidity levels indoors, especially in your bedroom. This helps maintain your skin’s moisture barrier, but remember to choose a humidifier that allows for easy cleaning so that you can prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Nutrition and Eye Health
Your diet and nutrition greatly affect your eye health, so consider incorporating some helpful nutrients into your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids—frequently found in fish, flaxseeds and walnuts—reduce inflammation and support tear production to keep your eyes moist. Almonds and avocados contain vitamin E, a powerful nutrient that improves eye lubrication.
Also, adequate water intake is crucial. Drinking enough fluids keeps your body’s tissues, including your eyes, well-hydrated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day and consider water-rich fruits such as cucumbers and watermelon as additional sources of hydration.
Tips for Relieving Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can be more than a winter misfortune. Fortunately, there are ways to manage this irritating experience.
1. Use Artificial Tears
Invest in preservative-free eye drops to alleviate dryness throughout the day—preservative-free options are gentler for frequent use and reduce the risk of irritation. Apply them before your eyes start feeling dry to maintain moisture.
2. Limit Screen Time
Take breaks every 20 minutes to reduce eye strain and promote natural tear production. Consider using anti-glare screens or blue light glasses to lessen the impact of digital devices on your eyes.
3. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a rest. This practice prevents digital eye strain, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
Moisture-Retaining Habits
Wear gloves and scarves outside to protect your skin from harsh elements. Choosing natural fibers such as cotton or wool can lessen skin irritation.
Additionally, you can opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that maintain the skin’s natural oils. Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic or formulated for sensitive skin to minimize the risk of irritation.
This year, you don’t have to suffer through winter dryness. By remembering these easy ways you can tackle dryness this winter, you can enjoy the season without discomfort.
