Winters are in full glory. The serendipity of the cold weather, the blanket of white snow, the warmth from the hearth makes winters an exciting time.
But in the same while, there are many issues that the cold also brings, one of which are the skin issues. Due to the air being very dry in winters, skin also tends to become dehydrated. It can then exacerbate conditions like eczema that require treatment from a dermatologist. Similarly, heating used in the homes also perpetuate dry skin.
Therefore, making your skincare routine winter-proof is very important. And while women may be more diligent in protecting their skin, men also need to give their skin some love and care.
However, those not familiar with the jargon of the beauty industry might find themselves confused and even daunted. Luckily, there are only a few basic principles that you need to cover to ensure that your skin remains healthy.
Winter skincare tips for men
Make moisturizer your best friend
Since the primary issue that occurs during winters is dry skin, addressing it is imperative. If not remedied, it can make skin flaky, itchy, and irritated. It can also cause skin to break, which is not just painful, but not good for health as it allows pathogens to enter the body.
So, make sure to invest in a moisturizer. Since facial skin is more delicate, it needs some robust form of moisturization. In winters, it is best to go for cream-based moisturizers. These help in not just providing adequate hydration, but they also aid in improving the skin barrier. A stronger lipid or skin barrier means that there is lesser moisture loss from the skin.
However, you also need to pay attention to your body skin as well. Since most people bathe with hot water, at times scalding hot water, it can lead to the skin becoming even drier.
Hence, it is vital that you pay attention to your body skin as well. You can opt for a body lotion, but try to go for one without scent, as that can be irritating. You can also use oils like olive oil and coconut oil right after shower, when your skin is still damp to hydrate skin and prevent it from becoming flaky.
Use a shaving cream
When you are shaving, it is good that you use a shaving gel or cream. If you dry shave, it can lead to the skin becoming irritated, and there can also be razor bumps as well.
On the other hand, if you use a shaving cream, it not only offers a closer shave, but it also prevents skin from becoming dry and irritated. Moreover, shaving cream also helps in curbing razor bumps.
SPF is for you too
Winters do not mean that you skimp on sunscreen. Exposure to sunlight causes skin to become dry and suffer from hyperpigmentation. Moreover, sunlight also increases the risk of skin cancer and premature aging of skin.
Therefore, you just wear sunscreen, always. Put it on around 30 minutes before going out. You also should pack it with you, as sunscreen needs to be applied after every two hours.
Protect your lips too
Just as your skin needs moisture and sun protection, your lips do too. It is not just the dry air that causes lips to become cracked, but since many people drink less water, it too contributes to the lips becoming chapped, flaky, and cracked.
So, also focus on your lips. Wear a lip balm with SPF and moisturizing properties during the day. At night you can use petroleum jelly for a more robust form of skin barrier. And drink sufficient water.
Talk to your doctor
It is vital that you talk to a skin specialist like Dr. Quratul Ain Sajida if you are running into skin problems. Dry skin is especially problematic for those suffering from problems like rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, etc. So, do not hesitate to contact your doctor for better skin care.