Archives for December 2019

When the colder months approach and we start reaching for our heavy coats, the moisture levels in our skin drops. For many of our patients, dry and itchy skin is the most unpleasant part of the winter season. Everything from cold wind chill to hot water showers and baths can make our skin feel dried out.

For these patients (and anyone with dry skin), we recommend a few simple morning routine adjustments to get you back to feeling hydrated and comfortable. Some of our insights are a little surprising to some—for example, hot showers actually make dehydration worse! Read on to see our tips for keeping skin hydrated and happy all winter long. 

Take shorter, cooler showers: The last thing you want to do on a cold winter’s night is take a cold shower. We get it! Instead of turning the nozzle completely, consider adjusting it just slightly. Before you bathe, close the door to the bathroom so the steam gets trapped inside and you benefit from the extra moisture. Keep your showers to 10 minutes or less and use warm water instead of hot. When it’s time to lather up, use a gentle cleanser, but don’t use too much product, since that can dry skin. 

Moisturize right after showering: Your skin absorbs moisture most readily right after it’s been washed, so apply product right away. For dry skin, creams are more restorative than lotions, which tend to be on the thin side. We recommend the brands EltaMD and SkinMedica, which we carry in our offices.

Wear a layer underneath wool clothing: Though it’s a time-tested material for keeping warm on cold winter days, wool can irritate your skin and cause itchiness. Wearing an undershirt beneath your favorite sweater can keep you from chafing. 

Apply sunscreen every morning: If you’ve been with West Dermatology for a while, then you probably saw this piece of advice coming. We suggest that everyone wear sunscreen daily, even in the winter. Sunburns are drying to skin, and a sunscreen with SPF 30-plus (along with protective clothing and sunglasses) is the best way to stave off UV damage. 

Drink more water: Hydration starts on the inside. Consider having a glass of water with breakfast instead of your usual coffee or tea, and your skin could reap rewards.

If you’re following the tips above and your skin’s still feeling dry, or if you simply want personalized suggestions, we’re here for you. Just make an appointment and we’ll help you take your skin from flaky and dry to firm, hydrated and smooth.

With the end of the year nearly here, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your 2019 health and skincare routine. If you find there’s room for improvement in your daily practices, fear not…simple adjustments can make all the difference! Take a look at our 12 days of skin tips, and follow along to boost your skin health in less than two weeks.

DAY ONE: Put a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher near your toothpaste. This way, you’ll see it first thing and remember to apply it every day. Limiting your UV exposure is a proven way to reduce your skin-cancer risk.

DAY TWO: Perform a skin self-check. Look at every inch of your skin from head to toe for any dark spots with irregular borders or other suspicious marks. If anything seems out of the ordinary, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get tested for skin cancer. Repeat the self-exam at least once every month—it could save your life. Outcomes are much better when patients get a cancer diagnosis early.

DAY THREE: Schedule a dermatology exam. If you’ve had skin cancer before or have a family history of skin cancer, then make a habit of seeing a dermatologist at least once a year. Your provider will check for any suspicious growths and biopsy as needed, so you have a diagnosis if necessary and a plan of action.

DAY FOUR: Buy a humidifier. Dry winter air leads to dry, itchy winter skin, and indoor heating can make the problem worse. Add some much-needed moisture back into the air and your skin will thank you.

DAY FIVE: Buy a gentler soap. Clarifying cleansers can strip skin of the oil it needs to stay smooth and supple. A sensitive skin formula could keep your skin from drying out.

DAY SIX: Put your lotion next to the sink or shower. Your skin absorbs moisture most effectively after being wet, so make it easy for yourself to moisturize right after bathing.

DAY SEVEN: Dig out your warmest, loosest clothes. Loose clothes are less likely to cause chafing than tight ones.

DAY EIGHT: Cook yourself a fish dinner. If you don’t eat fish, try walnuts or chia seeds. The omega fatty acids in these foods help prevent dry skin.

DAY NINE: Read or look up the ingredients on your soaps and lotions. If they contain alcohols or fragrance, they might be drying out your skin. To minimize the risk of dehydration, you might try sensitive-skin or fragrance-free formulas.

DAY TEN: Drop lip balm in your purse or briefcase. Dry winter weather can lead to chapped lips. Take a balm or salve wherever you go to keep your lips hydrated.

DAY ELEVEN: Swap out your laundry detergent. If you have sensitive skin, a harsh detergent can lead to irritation when your clothes contact your body. Opt for a fragrance-free formula instead.

DAY TWELVE: Sign up for a yoga class. If yoga’s not your thing, go for a hike or meditate. Stress relief benefits your whole body, including your skin.

You can use this tip list to pick and choose the best ones that work for you and your specific skin type and lifestyle. The important thing is to consider your health and give your skin what it deserves at year-end and year-round!