3 Tips for Spring Skin Care

We're almost there. Spring is just around the corner and you won't have to hear the words "polar vortex" for at least another six months. Before you know it, you'll be putting away the blankets and taking out the bathing suits. With the warm weather on the horizon, it's time to start thinking about your complexion, which during the winter months tends to dry out, causing all sorts of issues.

Dry skin can lead to several forms of discomfort, including peeling, flaking, cracking, redness, and itching. In some cases, it can even lead to eczema flares. Fortunately, you can start doing damage control before bathing suit season. If you've suffered from dry skin this winter, here are a few tips to help you revive your complexion and soothe that dreaded winter itch.

1) Hydrate

The average adult human body is 50-65% water. You'd think this would leave us sufficiently hydrated, but that's rarely the case. Your body requires extra food and liquid to stay hydrated. Keeping your body hydrated can deliver several health benefits, including healthier skin. For better hydration; drink lots of water, eat fresh fruit, vegetables and healthy fats. Also, cut back on salty and fried foods.

2) Moisturize One way to get rid of dry skin is to use moisturizer. Obvious as this solution may be, you shouldn't blindly slather on moisturizer whenever you feel like it. The type of moisturizer you use—as well as the amount and when you use it—plays an important role in its effectiveness. Oil-based moisturizers have more staying power than creams and are more effective at helping your skin retain water. Regardless of the type of moisturizer, though, you can clog your pores if you over-moisturize, so you should only moisturize at the best times; after a shower or bath while drying off or after washing your hands or face.

3) Add humidity Wondering why you feel scaly? That's due to a lack of humidity. Winter's frigid outdoor air and your home's dry indoor heat contain very little humidity, leaving your skin gasping for moisture. Luckily, you don't have to wait for those sticky summer days for a dose of humidity. You can buy a humidifier for your home. Start with the bedroom, but it doesn't hurt to place a humidifier in other living areas as well. Humidifiers can also help with stuffy sinuses, which tend to act up during the seasonal shift.

Do you need to see the Dermatologist now, but an appointment isn’t available for months? Immediate appointments are available at DermDox Dermatology Centers and walk-ins are welcome. Call us now to schedule– 570.459.0029.