Remedies for Chapped Ski

It’s hard to believe that winter is fast approaching when we’ve had such nice weather the past few weeks! So unusual for Minnesota this time of year and we definitely won't complain! We know it's going to change and so will the condition of our skin. 

Here are some tips to deal with winter skin: 

In winter, use a humidifier or place bowls of water near the heater to counteract the moisture loss created by central heating. 

A healthy diet is essential for healthy skin. Here is where fruits and veggies come in. Vitamin C is required for collagen production; beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A, a substance essential for maintaining skin tissue; vitamin E is vital for skin condition; and vitamin B helps repair the skin. 

Get sufficient sleep as the skin's cellular repair activity is at its optimum during this resting phase. 

Exercise benefits skin as it boosts circulation and encourages blood flow. Regular exercise will nourish and cleanse your skin from within. 

Dry brush skin in the mornings to stimulate circulation and the sebaceous glands. 

At bedtime use a moisturizer on your face and a lotion/moisturizing cream on your hands and feet. Limit the use of soap, because soap dissolves the fats from the skin and takes them away from the surface. 

15 minutes of sun exposure in the early morning or late afternoon is healthy for the skin, and activates the production of vitamin D in the body which, in turn, will promote healthy skin. Here in MN because of the reduced sunlight this time of year a Vitamin D supplement is recommended. 

Half an hour before you take your bath, massage yourself with a bath oil or if taking a shower, apply a bath oil immediately after. Blot yourself dry; do not rub vigorously with a bath towel. 

Wear gloves in cold weather to help prevent chapped hands. (I do this religiously!)