The winter season brings with it a host of challenges for our skin, the most common being dryness.
This seasonal affliction can range from mild discomfort to severe cracking and irritation. Understanding the underlying causes of winter dryness is crucial for effectively addressing and preventing it. Selecting the correct skincare products to relieve and prevent dry skin is essential and Real Chemistry is ready with recommendations.
Environmental Factors that contribute to dry skin:
Low Humidity : As temperatures drop, the relative humidity in the air decreases significantly. This creates a drier environment both indoors and outdoors. The skin, which naturally loses moisture through evaporation, faces increased water loss in low-humidity conditions. Sleeping with a mister and thoroughly hydrating the skin before sleep are both good strategies. Real Chemistry suggests relaxing for 30 minutes before sleep with the Environmental Rescue Mask to infuse the maximum amount of hydration in the skin before your sleep cycle.
Cold, Dry Air : Cold air has a lower capacity to hold moisture.
When we’re exposed to cold, dry winds, our skin’s natural oils are stripped away, leading to dryness and irritation. Real Chemistry recommends that you keep a travel peel handy for hands and cheeks along with the 5ML vial of Environmental Rescue Facial Oil.
Indoor Heating : To combat the cold, we often turn up the heat indoors.
However, heating systems, especially forced-air systems, can further reduce humidity levels. This can exacerbate dry skin, particularly in homes without humidifiers.
Skin's Natural Response
Reduced Sebum Production : Sebum, the oily substance produced by our skin’s sebaceous glands, acts as a natural moisturizer. In winter, the body may reduce sebum production as a response to the colder temperatures. This decrease in oil can leave the skin feeling dry and tight. Just when we need it the most, the body reduces the production of oil that might help relieve dry skin. Real Chemistry suggests regular use of the Environmental Rescue Essential Day Cream as well as the facial oil when needed.
Impaired Skin Barrier : The skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum, acts as a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting against irritants. Cold weather can weaken this barrier, making the skin more susceptible to dryness and sensitivity. It might seem counterintuitive to exfoliate during cold temperatures, but this is the very best thing you can do. Remove uneven, rough skin so your moisturizer is absorbed better, allowing it to provide all day hydration at the deepest cellular level.
Lifestyle Factors
Hot Showers and Baths : While a warm bath or shower may feel comforting in winter, hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils. Prolonged exposure to hot water can lead to dryness, especially for those with sensitive skin. Frequent Handwashing: Frequent handwashing, especially with harsh soaps, can dry out the skin, particularly on the hands. All of these are necessary sometimes, just replenish the moisture stripped away as soon as possible with a rich, hydrating moisturizer like the Environmental Rescue Essential Day Cream. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics and retinoids, can have a drying effect on the skin. Chat with your doctor about what to use in winter, but always choose an effective moisturizer and even a facial oil, if dryness persists.
Additional Considerations:
Age : As we age, our skin’s natural ability to retain moisture decreases. Since we can’t Benjamin Button this thing, have a plan. Select products that return moisture using precision, clean ingredients, like Real Chemistry. Individuals with naturally dry skin are more susceptible to winter dryness. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can worsen during the winter months. Exfoliation is absolutely essential if the medicines are to access the targeted tissue and work effectively.
Preventing and Treating Winter Dryness :
Understanding the causes of winter dryness empowers us to take proactive measures to prevent and treat it: Moisturize Regularly: Apply an effective moisturizer to your entire body, including your face, immediately after bathing or showering to lock in moisture. Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and the severity of dryness. Limit Hot Showers and Baths: Opt for lukewarm water and shorter bathing times to minimize moisture loss. Use Gentle Cleansers like the Fresh Start Foaming Cleanser from Real Chemistry. Avoid harsh soaps and detergents that can strip the skin of its natural oils or at least replace the oils after cleansing.
Opt for gentle cleansers in winter. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially in bedrooms and living rooms. Protect your skin by wearing gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from cold, dry air. Staying hydrated helps maintain overall skin health.
Real Chemistry is here to help you understand the underlying causes and by implementing preventive measures that might help you, you can effectively combat winter dryness and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin throughout the colder months.