Tips for Handling Dry Skin

Your dermatologist recommends ways to effectively combat your dry skin.

With the winter weather fast approaching and meteorologists already talking about snow, it’s time to prepare yourself for the blast of cold air for the next few months. This harsh seasonal weather is not only tough on our spirits but also on our skin, as well. And if you are already dealing with dry skin pretty regularly then you’ll want to take extra measures to ensure that your skin stays radiant all year long. Here are some ways to combat your dry skin during the winter and throughout the year.

1. Some like it warm: Nothing sounds more soothing than a hot shower or bath after a long day of work, particularly when the outside is threatening subzero temperatures; however, before you turn on that faucet, consider your skin. Hot water strips the body of essential moisture and can exacerbate dry skin. Don’t make your condition worse. Instead, opt for warm showers or baths and then apply a moisturizer immediately after.
2. Moisturizer is your friend: It can often feel like we are adding too much to our daily skin care regime; however, the one thing you should never skimp on each day is moisturizer. If you have severely dry skin, give your skin a little extra nourishment by opting for a thicker, richer facial cream at night before bed.
3. Know when to shave: You may already be well aware, but shaving can cause skin irritation. Also when you shave you remove your body’s natural oils, which can cause dry skin. Therefore the best time to shave your skin is after you shower. Never skip the shaving cream and shave in the direction that the hair is growing to keep skin irritation to a minimum. Also, always use a sharp razor blade, as a dull one can cause even more discomfort.
4. Sunscreen: It might sound odd but you should be wearing sunscreen everyday, even during the winter. Opt for sunscreen that is SPF 30 and protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
5. Surround yourself with moisture: When we turn on the heat in our homes it certainly keeps us cozy; however, the dry heat can do a number on our skin. If this is a concern, us a humidifier in your bedroom to add some moisture back into your room during the colder months.

If your dry skin has the best of you, call our Tulsa dermatologist office today to schedule an appointment. Let’s find you a treatment plan that gives you the healthy skin you want.