When a woman wants to look her best, she can do more to enhance her
appearance with proper care than with all the lotions, creams and
extra makeup needed to cover up unhealthy skin.
The winter months pose unique challenges. Constant switching between
unnaturally dry indoor air and the harsh cold or wind outdoors removes
moisture from the skin. Creams and lotions can replace some of that
moisture, but it is better to prevent those losses in the first place.
The skin is a living organ, the body's largest organ, not just a
covering like the upholstery on a couch. General health rules regarding
nutrition, proper rest and exercise all contribute to the overall
health of the skin. But, there are special rules relating to healthy
skin. Some are especially important during the colder months.
First, keep well hydrated. This is probably easier to remember during
summer, but is just as important in winter. Drink at least eight glasses
of water a day. This keeps skin moisturized and flushes toxins out
of your body. Eggnog and champagne can’t count as
part of those eight glasses. In fact, to counteract the diuretic affect
of alcohol, a woman should drink eight additional ounces of water
for every four ounces of alcohol she drinks.
Sun block is important all year round. Although skin is less
exposed in winter, ultraviolet rays can be particularly intense on
clear winter days. Even under cloudy skies, UV rays still penetrate.
When skiing, UV exposure is even greater because of the reflection
from snow and ice. Women should use a good sunscreen that blocks
both types of ultraviolet radiation - UVA and UVB.
Help keep skin healthy by keeping out the chemicals. Skin wasn't
designed to deal with dish soap, bleach, hair coloring and thousands
of other everyday chemicals. Many common cleaners and solvents specify
the wearing of gloves. Always follow such advice. But, even products
that don't require gloves can strip oils and moisture out of the skin,
leaving it dry, cracked and irritated. Antibacterial soap is a common
culprit.
Use gentle cleansers on the face. The face is more delicate than other
parts of the body and deserves special treatment
Get rid of dead skin. Most "dry skin" is actually skin
that is ready to fall off so exfoliation should be part of a regular
routine. Exfoliation helps moisturizers and other skin care products
do a better job. Remove dry skin before applying moisturizer, so those
dead cells don’t block the moisturizer.
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