It's winter! And if you've ever lived in a colder climate, you know what a miserable time of year this can be. It's cold outside, your skin is dry and flaky and you're constantly itching.
But don't despair! Below are seven ways to ward off winter itch and help you find relief from the seasonal scourge that is dry skin.
Warding Off Winter Itch
Winter itch, also known as pruritus hiemalis, is a common symptom of dry skin that occurs when the air is cold and dry. It mainly affects people on their legs—though it can sometimes be found in other parts of the body. The itch can be especially uncomfortable at night, when your skin is more sensitive. If left untreated, the symptoms may worsen over time.
Here are some great tips for keeping your skin smooth and healthy this winter.
Avoid Exposure to Cold Air and Wind
The first line of defense against winter itch is to avoid exposure to cold air and wind. To avoid exposure, keep your head covered using a hat or scarf, and wear gloves when you're outside. Also dress in layers so you can adjust depending on how warm or cool you feel.
Use Moisturizers
Moisturizers help keep skin hydrated to prevent winter itch and can be used in many ways: face creams, body lotions, hand creams and more. Getting the right moisturizer may have a dramatic effect on skin health. Look for moisturizers that are water-based and oil-free so they won't clog pores or cause acne flare ups. Additionally, be careful of dry-skin lotions that contain alcohol products—those may cause irritation to more oily skin types.
Avoid Hot Showers
Hot water can dry out your skin, making it more susceptible to itching. Instead of taking a hot shower, opt for lukewarm water that's just warm enough to relax but not so hot that it stings. After you've gotten out of the shower and dried off, apply moisturizer all over your body—not just where you're experiencing itchiness!
Use a Humidifier
If you're prone to winter itch, using a humidifier can help. Humidifiers add moisture to the air in your home or office. They're especially helpful in dry environments like the ones found in cold winters, and they can help relieve symptoms from conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. Simply leave the humidifier running for at least three hours a day. Also, be sure to replace the water in your humidifier regularly.
Stay Hydrated
Another effective way to ward off winter itches is by staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids will help your body maintain its natural moisture levels and prevent itching and scratching from dry skin. If you have to be out in the cold for long periods of time (such as during a walk), bring warm drinks with you so that you don't get dehydrated. According to the Mayo Clinic, to stay healthy in winter, drink eight cups of water a day, and have one glass between and with each meal.
Use Gentle Cleansers
When you use harsh or irritating cleansers, they can damage your skin, causing redness and irritation in the form of dry patches and itchiness. Using gentle cleansers helps keep your skin feeling fresh and clean with no irritation at all.
CLn 2-in-1 Gentle Wash & Shampoo safely removes impurities without drying out sensitive skin or irritating the scalp. It contains a moisture-rich formula that hydrates and soothes. It also has special conditioners that make it suitable for all sensitive skin and hair types—including fine or fragile hair. Plus, you can add the bottle pump to your order so that you can easily use it in shower!
If you are in a situation where your hands get dirty often, CLn HandWash will keep them clean. Its mild formula is gentle enough to use regularly without drying out hands or disrupting the skin barrier, making it ideal for those hands that need frequent washing.
Eat Healthy
Make sure that your diet is balanced and includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eating these foods regularly will ensure that your body gets all of the nutrients it needs each day, including omega 3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon or trout, which have been shown to improve overall skin health. You should also avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can cause dehydration and make your body more susceptible to chapping in the first place!
Final Thoughts
Winter can be a tough time for your skin, but you don’t have to suffer through it. With the right tips and tricks, you can keep your skin happy, healthy and itch-free all winter long!