Winter is here and so are the unpleasant side effects of heating sources. You might be under the impression that your dry skin and other winter skin conditions are a direct result of the cold air and wind; however, it is a bit more complicated. Your indoor heating is also contributing to the negative effects on your skin.
Heating Side Effects
The primary side effect of indoor heating is dry skin. Whether you have central heating or whether you use wood fireplaces, the effects are the same. The dry air actually removes moisture from your skin causing an itching, flaking, and drying effect. These conditions can appear anywhere including your legs, arms, scalp, hands, and face. You might also experience little red bumps in random places. This, too, is due to the lack of moisture in the air.
It is also important to note that your skin may become more sensitive during the winter because of the additional lack of moisture. Your skin will likely begin to look dull. And, your nails may become brittle, as well as your lips could become painfully dry. Regardless of the symptoms you most frequently develop, keeping your skin and body hydrated is essential to prevent and minimize these somewhat irritating developments.
Combat Indoor Heating Side Effects
The best ways to minimize these side effects range from changes in your daily product routine to changes in your home heating methodology. Use a humidifier. Many celebrities with stunning skin swear by them such as Gwyneth Paltrow. If you have a radiator, you can place a small bowl of water next to it to achieve a similar result as that of a humidifier. You might also consider wearing more clothing and turning the heat down to keep as much moisture in your skin as possible. Do not forget to cover as much of your body as possible when you are outdoors.
Moisturizing and applying lotion as soon as you get out of the shower are critical. You should also use a more gentle exfoliator a few times a week. It is still important to remove dead skin and impurities from your skin before you start your skincare routine. And, use products rich in hyaluronic acid as it has the ability trap moisture unlike nearly any other ingredient in the marketplace.
Ideal Hydrating Food and Drink Sources
Food and drinks can help to combat the effects of indoor heating, as well. Some food and drink sources that will improve your moisture retention include:
- Omega Oils
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Bran
- Carrots
- Celery
- Cucumbers
- Garlic
- Grapefruit
- Lettuce
- Oatmeal
- Oranges
- Salmon
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Yogurt
If you are using, or exposed to, a significant amount of indoor heating this winter, be sure that you have a humidifier, use the right products such as exfoliators and moisturizers, and eat water-based foods or foods and supplements that promote the retention of water and the condition of your skin will drastically improve quite quickly.