Is the beauty of autumn being destroyed by distressing patches of dry skin? The end of the year is a challenging time for our bodies, as the cold weather does what it can to interfere with two otherwise magical seasons. How can you avoid this apparent inevitability? Read on to find out what may be causing you some skin-based discomfort this October and to discover my best skincare tips for dry skin.
What’s Causing Your Dry Skin?
As discussed above, the change in season is a major factor in the emergence of dry skin. Cold air can strip the skin of its natural moisture and leave it parched and irritated. Harsh winds compound these symptoms and compromise the skin’s protective barrier. But it doesn’t stop there.
Many of our efforts to keep out the cold can actually make things worse. For example, ramping the central heating up will reduce indoor humidity levels and dry out your skin even further, as will unwinding in front of a warming fire. Hot baths and showers, alongside some of the products that we use whilst in them, can be immensely damaging too, particularly if we remain in the tub or cubicle for long periods of time.
Lastly, seasonal clothing is also known to cause problems, especially if these items are made from materials such as wool. Jumpers, scarves or coats can be vital for staying warm, but may lead to itchiness and irritation in those with sensitive skin.
How To Manage Dry Skin
So what would be the best skincare tips for dry skin? There are many simple things you can do…
- Spend less time in the bathroom. Regular washing is an important part of anybody’s day, but you need to know your limits. When you step into a bath or shower, ensure that the water remains at a manageable temperature throughout. A maximum of ten minutes should be spent bathing or showering to reduce the possibility of exacerbating dry skin.
- Pick your products wisely. Autumn (and winter’s) all-out assault on the skin requires a bigger emphasis on skincare products. Your moisturiser should be thicker than it was in the summer and will work best when applied as soon as you exit the water. Elsewhere, care should be taken to exfoliate once a week and to avoid highly alkaline products that won’t do you any favours. Browse my webshop for a range of suitable products.
- Hands. Face. Lips? Remember – skincare doesn’t start and end with the face. The skin on many other parts of your body will be put through the mill this autumn, not least on your hands and your lips. Keep these happy by investing in lip balm and hand cream. You’ll thank me later.
- If you can’t stand the heat… The popularity of working from home puts us more at risk of drying out sooner than normal. Prevent this by turning your heating off when your house has warmed up, or introducing a humidifier into the environment. Keep chocolate and coffee to a minimum too, as both of these things can be dehydrating. If you insist on regular hits of caffeine, make sure you drink enough water to compensate.
- Dress to impress (your skin). It’s easy to get carried away with our autumn wardrobes, but doing so can set the stage for dryness and irritation. Counter this by wearing soft fabrics (think silk or cotton) alongside woollen materials. You’ll then be able to beat the cold and keep your skin at its best.
Book A Consultation
Exhausted all of the best skincare tips for dry skin? Book in for a consultation with me today and I will be able to determine the best course of action for you. Following a comprehensive skin assessment, I will make a series of recommendations based on my findings, whilst keeping your requirements in mind. Call 01628 303020 or secure your consultation by visiting my Booking page.
