Yet another frigid winter has arrived in Boone. As Appalachian students, we are faced with cool temperatures and harsh winds that provide very little moisture in the air. If you are someone who constantly deals with the pain of having dry, irritable skin due to these conditions, then here are five tips to maintaining a healthy complexion.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
During the summer, there is nothing better than a fresh glass of ice water to quench your thirst. With wintertime, the dilemma is that many tend to crave warm drinks that do not supply us with the proper hydration. It’s far too easy to get in the habit of substituting water for a hot coffee. That being said, it’s important to make sure you get your daily intake of about eight glasses of water during the winter season. Overall, keeping hydrated will supply your skin cells with the proper moisture it requires to maintain a healthy complexion.
2. Avoid Hot Showers
After a long day of chilly weather, it is so tempting to come home and jump into a scorching, hot shower. The problem with this is that hot water actually removes natural skin oils more quickly and can heighten dry skin. Make sure to shower or bathe in lukewarm water and for a limited amount of time of about ten minutes or less.
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3. Exfoliate!
When constantly in cold conditions, exfoliation is absolutely necessary for the health of your skin. If dry and flaky specs are dotting across the surface of your skin, that indicates that those cells have expired. The best way to cleanse your skin of these dead cells is to remove them by exfoliation a few times a week.
4. Moisturize Frequently
Make sure to apply moisturizer to your skin immediately after a shower or after a bath. This will keep your skin from drying out easier because the product helps to trap the moisture. Also, apply moisturizer throughout the day when you feel it is necessary.
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5. Invest in a Humidifier
Using a humidifier in your home will amplify the amount of moisture in the surrounding air. This in turn will help you to keep your skin hydrated. Leave it on at night and wake up to a feeling of nice and refreshed skin.
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Everyone is different. So, whatever your skin type is, experiment with different moisturizers and exfoliating scrubs to see what works best for you. When in doubt, visiting your local dermatologist is always a reliable option. Other than that, follow the above tips and you will be five steps closer to surviving another Boone winter with flawless skin!