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Even in a place like sunny Southern California, the sudden decrease in temperature in the fall and winter seasons can be enough to dry the skin. If proper measures are not taken to care for it, the skin can become itchy, flaky, or even red and irritated. Follow these simple tips to protect your skin when the weather outside is frightful.
1. Wear Sunscreen
Overcast clouds or colder temperatures do not cancel out the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, which can lead to photodamage, premature aging, cell death, or an inflammatory response. In fact, up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays still reach the ground on a cloudy day, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Make it a part of your daily routine to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF above 15, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours.
If you plan to visit the slopes this winter, for skiing, snowboarding, or other activities, remember that snow can reflect up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays. What’s more, higher altitude can increase UV strength by 10 to 12 percent. Consider increasing your SPF to 30 when you participate in these activities.
2. Mind your diet
A diet rich in essential fatty acids can help hydrate skin cells and lead to supple skin during the colder months, and walnuts, flaxseed, salmon, borage oil, and olive oil are some of the best sources. A study by the Institute of Experimental Dermatology in Germany revealed that women who took 2.2 grams per day of either flaxseed or borage oil supplements experienced a significant increase in skin moisture and smoothness. The seeds of the borage plant are the richest known source of Gamma Linoleic Acids (GLAs), and flaxseeds are a significant source of Omega-3 fatty acids. For those with very dry skin or inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema or rosacea, flaxseed and borage oil supplements can be very beneficial.
3. Don’t overheat your house
Central heating and air conditioning can dry the skin because they cause humidity levels to drop. Instead of turning up the heat this winter, bundle up or invest in a humidifier to retain moisture in the air.
4. Avoid harsh soap
Body wash, face wash, and hand soap can strip the skin of its protective oils especially if it is an antibacterial or deodorant soap. When shopping, be sure to avoid the lye in the list of product ingredients, as it can be very irritating to dry or sensitive skin. For a natural alternative, you may consider coconut oil, grapeseed oil, or sunflower oil to wash your skin without causing irritation and dryness.
5. Avoid long, hot baths
Hot water can also be very drying to the skin. Limit bathing time and opt for lukewarm water instead of hot to keep the skin supple.
Lifestyle choices, sun exposure, and the elements can have quite a taxing effect on the health and appearance of the skin. If you are interested in learning how to correct or prevent skin damage and reverse the effects of aging, please contact board-certified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Renato Calabria to schedule your consultation. Please call (310) 777-0069 or fill out our online contact form today.
