As winter sets in, we face the all-too-familiar struggle with dry, flaky, and itchy skin. While indulging in long, hot baths to combat the cold is tempting, this can worsen skin dryness and irritation. So, what’s the best bathing routine for winter skincare?
Ditch the harsh scrubbing
Step away from that loofah! Rough exfoliating tools can strip your skin of its protective layer, making it even drier and itchier. The dryer your skin is, the more you refrain from aggressive scrubbing.
Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliant or a soft washcloth to keep your skin smooth without damage.
Less is more when it comes to bathing
It is preferable to avoid soaking in a hot bath or hitting the sauna when it’s freezing outside. Frequent exposure to hot water can seriously dry your skin by washing away its natural oils.
Strong soaps or scrubs should be avoided, and showers should be brief—ideally less than 10 minutes. Hypoallergenic soaps or cleansers are preferable to rough shower towels.
Extra TLC for sensitive skin warriors
Avoid scrubbing or using exfoliants for your dry skin if you’re dealing with atopic dermatitis. Instead, try a quick dip in the tub followed by a gentle shower.
The water temperature should be between 38C (100°F) and 40C (104°F). Super-hot water causes dry, itchy skin. When rinsing, use lukewarm water.
The hot-and-cold trick for glowing skin
Here’s a pro tip: start with warm water for a thorough cleanse, but finish with a blast of cold. Why? Warm water opens up your pores for a deep clean, while cold water helps tighten them back up and boost skin elasticity. It might be a bit of a shock, but your skin will thank you for that firming finale!
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