The winter weather can really take a toll on your skin. Itchy, irritated, dry or chapped skin looks that way, and can be very uncomfortable. How do you prevent dry skin in the winter months? Dr. Robert A. Weinstein provides his best advice for keeping skin looking and feeling healthy all winter long.

Don’t crank up the heat
When it’s cold and blustery outside, we want to stay warm and toasty inside. Keeping your central heat turned up can dry out the air in your home, drying out your skin in the process. Try keeping your thermostat set to a comfortable, but not too warm setting of about 68-72 degrees. This idea is not only better for your skin, but better for your budget as well!
Avoid the hot shower
Using very hot water can have a drying effect on your skin, reducing the natural oils in your skin. This is especially important if you frequently wash your hands with hot water. Cool it down just a bit in the shower, bath and for handwashing.

Eat Your Vitamins
Eating foods that are rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is great for your health and for your skin. You can take a supplement such as fish oil or flaxseed oil. Try to include foods like salmon, halibut, oysters, walnuts and soybeans (edamame) in your diet.

Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough good old H2O is great for your skin all year round. Most people don’t drink enough water. Try cutting out carbonated drinks which dehydrate you such as sweetened teas and stick to plain old water. You’ll look and feel better. Add a little variety with fresh citrus, mint or even berries.

Avoid Astringents and Alcohol on Your Skin
In winter, astringents and alcohols will dry your skin even more, and are an unnecessary step. Try to avoid these products if you can. Drinking alcohol in excess during any time of the year also dehydrates your skin.

Use a Professional Skin Care Regimen
Professional skin care advice can be one of the best things you can do for your skin. Over the counter products contain many fragrances and irritants and are often not effective at best. Professional products are designed specifically to improve the health and function of your skin as well as improve the texture, tone and moisture level. Healthy skin is naturally hydrated skin. Our top pick for skin care includes the use of the Obagi Nu-Derm system and daily use of Vitamin C Serum.

Dry, winter skin does not have to get you down. You can prevent it and correct it by changing a few small things about your routine. For more information, or for a complimentary skin care analysis and customized treatment plan contact us at 972-869-2525

Happy Holidays from the team at Cosmetic Youth!

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