Most of us know how important it is to protect our skin from the sun’s damaging rays in the summer. But did you also know it’s important to have a winter game plan to keep your skin moisturized and glowing? In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) designates November Healthy Skin Month to educate and empower people of all ages to learn how to take great care of their skin. It’s the body’s largest organ, after all — and everybody’s got it!
Read on for some skin-loving actions you can take this month and all season long.
- Protect your skin from the sun if you’re going to go outside. Yes, even in winter! Keep those summer habits alive and slather on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher — and don’t forget to cover up with protective clothing and a broad-brimmed hat. UVA and UVB rays are alive and well all winter long and they can still cause damage to your skin, raise your risk for skin cancer and contribute to premature aging.
- Avoid tanning beds. You may be tempted to keep your sun-kissed look going all winter long courtesy of a tanning bed, but resist. Research shows that UV rays from tanning beds can increase your risk for skin cancer and could age your skin, resulting in more wrinkles.
- Learn the ABCDEs of skin cancer. There are certain changes to your moles, birthmarks and skin that may be cause for concern. Known as the ABCDEs, if you notice these signs, the National Institute on Aging recommends making an appointment with your primary care provider or a dermatologist to make sure it’s not an indication of cancer:
Asymmetry (i.e. one half of the spot looks different from the other half)
Borders are irregular
Color changes or it has more than one color
Diameter is larger than a pencil eraser
Evolving; meaning it in size, shape, symptoms (such as itching or tenderness), surface (especially if it’s bleeding), or shades of color - Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Winter brings colder temperatures and drier air, and your skin may need a little extra TLC to feel its best. To avoid — or treat — dry, itchy skin, the AAD suggests applying moisturizer right after you step out of the shower, so it can lock in the extra moisture. Further, the AAD recommends using an ointment or cream instead of lotion, because those products tend to be less irritating and more effective when dealing with dry skin. Just make sure the items you select are gentle and fragrance-free, otherwise they may feel a little harsh, especially if your skin is cracked or chapped.
- Don’t neglect your lips. The cold weather, the dry air, the wind and the sun can all wreak havoc on your skin and cause your lips to chap. Use a non-irritating lip balm or lip moisturizer to seal moisture into your smile.
- When you shower or bathe, opt for warm water, not hot. It sounds counterintuitive and a little less enjoyable. Who doesn’t love a hot shower when it’s freezing cold out? But in truth, hot water will only further dry out your skin, because it may strip off natural oils you need to retain moisture.
- Consider using a humidifier. Winter air tends to be dry, and when the heater kicks on in your home, it’s even more so. A humidifier returns some of that moisture to the air, and your skin may thank you for it.
- Quit smoking. Have you ever met a 40-year-old heavy smoker who looked much older? That’s because tobacco isn’t doing the skin — or other systems in the body — any favors. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, the long-term effects of smoking may include dry skin, uneven pigmentation, bags around the eyes, sagging around the jaw and deepening wrinkles and furrows on the face. If you need help quitting tobacco, talk to your doctor or reach out to the American Lung Association’s Tobacco Quitline.
- Make healthy food choices. What you eat and drink impacts the way your body functions, and research has shown that if you’re not getting the right nutrients your skin may show it. Strive to eat a healthy diet, filled with whole foods, antioxidants and fiber. Make a habit of consuming lots of lean proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. And don’t forget to drink lots of water. Proper hydration may also help your skin look and feel better.
- Find ways to manage your stress. Stress can worm its way through our entire physical being and cause disruptions in surprising ways. According to the AAD, stress can affect the way our skin appears by increasing inflammation, slowing down the wound-healing process and potentially interfering with skin conditions. Because our glands produce more oil when we’re stressed, people with acne experience breakouts, and people with psoriasis and eczema may have flare-ups. To help regulate your system, try different stress management endeavors, such as exercise, meditation, mindfulness, yoga and deep breathing. When you find one you like, make a daily practice of it.
- Get your zzzzzs. When you sleep, your body can focus its energy on repairing different systems, including your skin. Research has shown that people who aren’t getting enough sleep on the regular may show earlier signs of aging, experience diminished skin barrier functions and feel less satisfied with their appearance. Aim for seven to nine hours a night to get the biggest benefits from sleeping.
Itchy, uncomfortable skin isn’t a winter requirement. By making a few simple changes to your routine in the fall, you can help put moisture back where it belongs, quickly, before things get uncomfortable.
If you’ve made the changes above, however, and you find that you still have some skin concerns, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or a dermatologist today. They can address any possible skin conditions and offer personalized advice to help keep you feeling healthy and radiant in every season.
