Not to get all "Game of Thrones" on you, but winter is coming. And with it comes the dreaded dry and flaky skin that the cold weather inevitably triggers. But fear not: If itchy, thirsty skin is one seasonal tradition you'd like to break this year, we're here to help.
We tapped dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD to share a few quick-and-easy tricks for achieving silky-smooth, oh-so-hydrated skin this winter. We promise your skin will be prepared, no matter what winter brings.
We tapped dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD to share a few quick-and-easy tricks for achieving silky-smooth, oh-so-hydrated skin this winter. We promise your skin will be prepared, no matter what winter brings.
Here's news sure to make lazy girls everywhere rejoice: You can hydrate your skin while you snooze. "Try sleeping with a humidifier in your bedroom every night from mid-October to mid-April," says Downie. "This adds moisture to your skin, hair and nails." Guess there's a reason they call it beauty rest, after all.
Just because it's hidden under a fabulous head of hair doesn't mean your scalp isn't susceptible to the harsh, drying effects of winter weather. But don't go slathering handfuls of lotion on your head. Instead, try massaging a hydrating conditioner into your scalp. Opt for one formulated with botanical oils -- think moisturizing coconut and almond oils -- because it won't clog your pores like traditional conditioners.
If you're like us, you log a lot of time huddled by the heater during the winter (or a fireplace if you're way classier). But while blasts of heat spell warm relief for our chilly frames, they're a dehydrating disaster for our complexions, since dry air basically sucks moisture from our skin. Make sure you show your face a little love this season with a hydrating daily moisturizer like Aveeno's Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer. Bonus: The formula contains SPF, which is a year-round must-have.
You know that chunky wool sweater you love? You know, the one that helps keep you superwarm and hides the results of all of that comfort food you've eaten? Well, it turns out it may be doing more harm than good. "Sweating under heavy winter clothing (like wool) can dehydrate you, so drink plenty of water and wear more breathable fabrics, like cotton," advises Downie.