Skincare is never more difficult than during winter, when there is an excess of cold and dry air. When this air comes into direct contact with the skin, it leeches moisture and causes irritation (cracking, chafing, inflammation, etc.). However, there are several simple lifestyle habits you can adopt to help keep your skin healthy, even during the harshest winters:

1. Invest in a humidifier
The purpose of a humidifier is to add moisture to the air, especially once you turn your forced heating on and the air is dry. The moisture will enable hydration of the skin and airways. Is essential to run the machine to get enough and well-distributed moisture as you sleep, such as in your bedroom.

2. Lower the thermostat
It was also vital to lower the temperature of your thermostat to reduce dry air. Raising the thermostat temperature to higher than needed causes forced air to constantly pump into your home, making the air and your skin even drier. Therefore, it is paramount to program your thermostat to provide regulated air temperatures that allow humidity content to remain in the air. The most suitable temperature for adequate humidity is -68F. This temperature also maintains healthy, hydrated skin

3. Opt for gentle cleansers
A gentle cleanser, which is free of any fragrance, is important to keep skin clean and hydrated during winter. Bar soaps, on the other hand, often contain irritating components that may dry out the skin. Therefore, a gentle cleanser gel with hydrating natural properties (i.e., aloe or coconut oil) is the preferred winter soap.

4. Apply sunscreen
It is advisable to apply sunscreen even on gray days during winter.  Keep in mind that the sun’s reflection is severe to skin when there is a blanket of snow or ice on the ground. The snow acts as a reflectant, scattering the sun rays back upon the skin. According to the National Skin Cancer Foundation, snow can scatter more than 80% of the sun’s rays. Therefore, the best way to control skin cancer incidences is to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses, even on gray days

5.  Limit shower time and temperature
During the winter season we are always tempted to take long steamy shows to offset the prevailing chill in the air. However, it is advisable to take a shorter, lukewarm shower for about 5-10 minutes. Excessive use of hot water causes the skin to turn red and lose moisture. 

6. Moisturize frequently
Lastly, it is always important to moisturize the skin frequently. The best option is to use any form of ointment or cream that creates a protective layer over the surface of the skin to lock in moisture. This technique creates a waterproof layer that improves the natural water and oils in healthy skin