Winter is the season for comfort, good food and warmth. However, while the cold weather is a welcome change after the monsoons, it brings along an array of skin and hair problems. 

During winter, while most people are concerned about avoiding allergies and infections, it’s equally important to take care of your skin and hair. 

Dry flaky skin, chapped lips, cracked heels, dull and dark skin are some of the common skin problems that you face during winters. Winters can take a toll on your hair as well. Cold climates can make your hair dry, dull and lifeless. 

Therefore, it is important that you follow a diligent skin and hair care routine during the winters. Here let's take a look at some important skin and hair tips for winters:

For Skin

  • Avoid Harsh Products. Avoid using foaming shower gels, face wash and hand washes. Foaming strips away moisture from the skin, rendering it very dry. Use a soap-free cleanser instead.

  • Avoid Hot Showers. Do not use very hot water on your face or body. Use lukewarm water as hot water tends to dry the skin out.

  • Moisturize Your Skin. During winters use a thicker moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which makes it long-lasting. Make sure that you apply a moisturizer at least twice a day.

  • Avoid Direct Sun Exposure. Direct exposure to the sun can make your skin dry, sensitive and can also lead to other complications. Sunscreen is a must during all seasons. Make sure that you do not step out without applying sunscreen on the skin that is exposed. 

  • Exfoliate Your Skin. During winters, your skin cells dry out and die faster. Therefore, to buff out these dead cells and promote the growth of new skin cells, exfoliation becomes necessary.

  • Stay Well Hydrated. Though you don't feel thirsty during cold climates, it is necessary that you drink enough water and keep yourself well hydrated. This helps keep your skin soft and supple.

For Hair

  • Avoid Frequent Hair Washes. Overwashing your hair can strip the natural oils off your strands. Avoid shampooing your hair more than twice a week. Using a sulfate-free, mild shampoo will help in maintaining the natural moisture balance of your hair and scalp. 

  • Moisturize Your Scalp. Winter can make your scalp dry and itchy. This can lead to dandruff and a flaky scalp. Doing an oil massage once a week will help in keeping your scalp nourished and moisturized. 

  • Avoid Heat Styling. Winters can make your hair dry and brittle. Therefore, using heat styling tools during winters can cause breakage of your hair. It is better to allow your hair to air dry rather than using a blow dryer.

  • Use a Good Conditioner. It is important that you use a good conditioner every time you wash your hair. It helps prevent dryness and keeps your hair moisturized.

  • Cover Your Hair. Exposing your hair to dry and cold climates can damage your locks. While stepping out try to cover your hair with a hat or a scarf. Using silk or a satin cloth to cover your hair will help in avoiding any possible friction from other materials. 

These simple tips will help you maintain the health of your skin and hair during the cold and bid farewell to the winter woes!

 

Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.