Tight, itchy and dry skin can happen in all seasons but it's more common when the thermometer drops. Flakes often cluster where we have the fewest oil glands: hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Skin is hydrated through diet and by absorbing water from the air. But when the humidity drops and dry heat cranks, there's less moisture available. Plus, as we age, our skin has less oil and glycosaminoglycans, which help it hold water. Just layering on lotion won't do it. For optimal hydration, try these strategies:
Cleanse gently
A foamy wash may be your dry skin's worst enemy. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a cleansing agent used in soaps, cleansers, and shampoos, washes away dirt and also skin's natural oils. Opt instead for an SLS-free formula or an oil-based cleanser, which does the job without sucking moisture from your skin: oil breaks down dirt and other oils, then emulsifies to wash them away.
Good options: Eve Lom Cleanser (which can be used even on acneprone faces), and Eau Thermale Avene Cleansing Oil for the body.
Exfoliate
No matter how many thick lotions you slather on, they won't sink in if the skin is covered with dead cells. The solution? Scrub, but be gentle: harsh exfoliants can further irritate dry skin.
Good options: Intelligent Nutrients Refining Micro-Polish for your face and Aura Cacia Nourishing Body Polish for your body.
Layer lotions
After cleansing, while skin is still damp, apply a mild moisturizer that contains shea butter, glycerin, or ceramides. If your skin is extra dry, seal in your moisturizer with a natural oil. For your face, use a light oil like grapeseed—it won't clog pores and has anti-inflammatory properties to calm itchy, red skin. For your body, go for a heavier but still nongreasy oil like jojoba.
Vegetal oils in the bath
Hot water works against dry skin, breaking down the lipid barrier in your skin and depleting natural oils. Instead, soak in a warm tub that's infused with a few teaspoons of natural, lightweight plant-based oils, such as grapeseed, almond, sesame, or coconut, and go for the pure oiils.
Add humidity
The most common type of indoor heat is forced air, which is also the most drying. Consider this secret weapon: a humidifier in your bedroom. Sleeping in moist air can help rebalance skin and keep it hydrated all day.
Reduce sugar and salt
Too much sugar and salt can dehydrate you and your skin. Besides, sugar causes more inflammation, which damages collagen and elastin in the skin's fibers, leading to more moisture loss. To stay hydrated, keep your added sugar intake under 25 g a day. That's a piece of dark chocolate, a protein bar, or a cup of flavored yogurt.
Add omega-6s
To keep skin moist, increase the natural oils inside your body as well as out. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is a type of omega-6 fatty acid that helps reduce dry skin. To get more of it through your diet, try taking a capsule of evening primrose or borage oil, or add a scoop of green spirulina to a smoothie. Hemp seeds are also great—just sprinkle a teaspoon on a salad or oatmeal for added benefits.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments, suggestions or doubts