Winter months threaten skin health: Skincare tips from an expert

Winter months can negatively affect skin health. Therefore, winter can be challenging for your skin.

Dermatology Specialist Dr. Gül Şekerlisoy Tatar provided information on the importance of skincare in winter:

“In the winter season, cold air, dry climates, and heating systems in closed environments can disrupt the skin's moisture balance. Therefore, it is important to protect our skin with basic steps and small changes to your skincare routine to be applied for winter skincare.

Low humidity, harsh winds, and the dryness caused by heating systems can weaken the skin's natural moisture barrier. For this reason, it is important to update your skincare routine during the winter months,” said Şekerlisoy, who offered the following recommendations:

SWITCH YOUR MOISTURIZER

Use richer creams instead of light moisturizers during the winter months. Instead of water-based products, opt for oil-based products that intensely moisturize the skin and create a protective barrier against weather conditions.

For facial moisturizing, those with combination and oily skin can benefit from water-based moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which have a higher moisturizing capacity.

CARE BEFORE BED

You can support your skincare overnight by using masks or serums that deeply moisturize your skin before going to bed. In particular, products containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin help the skin retain moisture.

GENTLE CLEANSING

Hot water and harsh cleansers can reduce your skin's natural oils, causing it to dry out even more. Cleanse your skin gently with lukewarm water and mild cleansers.

DO NOT NEGLECT SUNSCREEN USE

Protecting against the harmful effects of the sun is often overlooked in the winter months. However, UV rays can damage the skin even in cloudy weather.

For this reason, do not go outside without sunscreen on days when the UV index is 2 or higher. We do not need to use sunscreen indoors during the winter months.

INTERNAL HYDRATION

Drinking plenty of water helps your skin stay hydrated during the winter months. Additionally, consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help the skin maintain its moisture and increase its elasticity.

PROTECT YOUR HANDS

Hands are among the areas most affected in winter. While washing hands with lukewarm water and moisturizing by applying hand cream frequently is sufficient for a basic hand care routine, wearing gloves when going outside is one of the best precautions to take in cold weather.

HUMIDIFY ROOMS

Heaters used in winter lower the humidity of the air. Using a humidifier to increase the humidity level of your home can be beneficial for your skin health.

Especially for skin prone to sensitive eczema, it is important that the room temperature is not too high and is kept around 18-22 degrees.

With these recommendations, you can protect your skin's health during the winter months and strengthen your skin against the negative effects of cold weather conditions. Remember, regular care and the use of appropriate products are essential for healthy skin.