Dry skin is a common winter problem faced by all - from kids to adults to the elderly ones. The humidity levels drop in winters and the air outside is cold and dry. Hence, water evaporates quickly, leaving our skin feeling tight and flaky.

Primarily, dry skin occurs when the skin doesn't retain sufficient moisture. This can also happen as a result of frequent bathing, use of harsh soaps, aging, or certain medical conditions. It is important that you take care of your skin the right way to make sure it is well hydrated and healthy throughout the winter season.

Here are quick do's and don'ts on how to take care of your skin to keep winter woes at bay:

1) Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Skin moisturizers, which re-hydrate the top layer of skin cells and seal in the moisture, are the first step in combating dry skin. In general, the thicker and greasier a moisturizer, the more effective it will be. Because they contain no water, they're best used while the skin is still damp from bathing, to seal in the moisture. 

2) Bath with a mild soap - Firstly, limit yourself to one 5 to 10-minutes bath or shower daily. While a piping hot water bath feels amazing, it is best to take bath with lukewarm water to not rip the skin of its natural oils. Next, minimize your use of soaps and ideally use a mild one. 

3) Sunscreens are for winters too! Do not ditch your SPF creams in the winters. As much as you need them during summer, they're equally important for protecting your skin in the cold and dry weather too. The regular sunscreen, 15 or 30 SPF, should be plenty.

4) Stay hydrated - Make sure you're drinking a lot of water! Staying hydrated helps maintain moisture in your skin and can help soothe dry skin.

5) Nourish from within -  Your skin needs all the right nutrients to look healthy and happy, just like other body parts. The best nutrients for skin include vitamin A, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. You can find these nutrients in high concentration in salmon, anchovies, sardines, kale, coconut, almonds and carrots. 

Tips to keep your lips moist and soft in winter:

  • Apply Lip Balms that contain Vitamin E, Tea Tree Oil, or petroleum jelly to the lips. You may apply these balms many times a day, especially when you are more exposed to sunlight. 
  • Apply a Moisturizer, Vitamin E Oil, Aloe Vera Gel or Butter on your lips to retain moisture.
  • Before putting on Lipsticks, apply a small amount of lip balm or vaseline to moisturize your lips.
  • Avoid licking and biting your lips frequently, as this may lead to cracked lips or worsen your condition if you already have one.
Remember that dry skin is usually not a serious health problem, but it can cause serious complications, such as chronic eczema (red patches) or bleeding from fissures or a secondary bacterial infection. But now that you know what is to be done, you should start right away. Happy Skin, Happy Winters!