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Winter Skincare Hacks!

happy young man applying winter cream on face

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Show your skin some extra love when the mercury dips. Follow these simple dos and don’ts to keep it in the pink (pun intended) of its health.

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It’s officially sweater season!
Or the cuddling-in-bed-for-a-few-extra-minutes one.
Or the one where evenings are for drinking a hot cup of cocoa or a glass of whiskey/brandy.

Whatever floats your boat… you get the drift, right? While the colder months often get the romantic in us excited, our skin isn’t as thrilled. It gets drier than usual because of the cold air and lack of humidity. Plus, if you live in a place where it gets really cold—the skin on your hand start to peel, lips crack and your complexion becomes dull, lifeless and rough.  

Scared much? Don’t be. We at Man’s Life are here to offer you guidance on how to save your skin, this winter! 

WINTER SKIN DOs AND DON’Ts

If there’s one advice we could give you, and which basically sums skincare for the colder months, it is this: STAY HYDRATED! Make sure to keep hydrating your hands because most hand sanitisers have alcohol in them! Let’s take a look at a few hacks that will save your skin from a world of trouble!

❌ DON’T TAKE A HOT SHOWER

young handsome man taking a hot shower in winter

Dr Jaishree Sharad, Mumbai-based celebrity cosmetic dermatologist and author of the bestseller Skin Rules says, “The number one step should be avoiding hot-water showers! Also, long ones. While I know that the thought of a long, hot bath on a chilly day can be tempting,  prolonged exposure to hot water can dry the skin out even more.” 
DO: “Stick to short baths using lukewarm water.”

 

❌ DON’T USE SOAPS

Dish with soap bars on grey table

Avoid using soaps or body washes that lather too much, as these will alter the pH balance of your skin.
DO: Use mild and organic shower gels instead.

 

❌ DON’T RUB YOUR SKIN WITH A TOWEL

The man after washing his hands reaches for the towel to wipe them

After a shower, be gentle with a towel. Rubbing it will only make your skin roughen up.
DO: Instead, just dab your skin to retain a little bit of moisture. “On slightly damp skin, apply a moisturiser on your entire body. When you do this, the moisture gets sealed in, and the hydrating effects of the product lasts longer,” explains Dr Sharad.

 

❌ DON’T SKIP MOISTURISER AT BEDTIME

A Guy Applying Moisturising Cream On Face

The cooler months call up for double protection and hydration. So, don’t ditch the hydrating lotion or cream before going to bed thinking that the morning routine would suffice!
DO: At bedtime use a thicker moisturising cream. Says Dr Sharad, “During the day, opt for a lighter one with vitamin E, ceramides and hyaluronic acid and at night—use one with heavy lipids like cocoa butter, shea butter, argan or coconut oils—especially for your hands, elbow, knees and feet.”

 

❌ DON’T USE PRODUCTS WITH ALCOHOL

Toner skin face

Dr Sharad strictly recommends staying away from toners and astringents in winter—as they’re alcohol-based and will further dry out your skin!
DO: Use gel, oil or water-based products instead, according to your skin type and needs. 

 

❌ DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR (UNDER) EYES

Eye cream treatment

“The under-eye area needs attention during winter, as the skin is very thin. You tend to get those fine lines, creases and sometimes even dry skin and red patches if you don’t moisturise,” advices Dr Sharad.
DO: Apply a moisturiser or an under- eye cream or gel without fail.

 

❌ DON’T DITCH THE LIP BALM! 

Man using lip balm to treat dry lips in winter

Lips tend to chap and sometimes crack when the temperature drops. So, a lip balm is a must. “Do not lick your lips, as your saliva will only make matters worse.” No one wants to kiss chapped lips! Yikes. 
DO: Use a fragrance-free lip balm to prevent darkening of your lips. You can also apply ghee on your lips.

 

❌ DON’T IGNORE YOUR FEET

A man applying feet moisturizing cream

Feet often get a step-motherly treatment despite doing so much for us! If you have extremely dry skin, your feet can crack during winter, and the monthly pedicures won’t just cut it! 
DO: Moisturise your feet twice daily. Use a heavy-duty moisturiser or foot cream, and at bedtime—apply the cream and wear cotton socks. This will lock the moisture in, and keep your feet soft and supple! You could also give those moisturising socks a try! 

In addition to all of the above—don’t skip the sunscreen, avoid being in air-conditioned or heated rooms for long, and exfoliate only weekly (if you don’t have sensitive skin that is)! Drink lots of water and make sure to keep hydrating those hands because most hand sanitisers have alcohol in them! These tips will ensure that your skin loves winters as much as you do!

 

[All Image Credits: Shutterstock]

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