12 Late Winter Shower Routine Changes That Keep Skin from Drying Out
As the temperature drops and winter settles in, your skin can start to feel the effects of the cold, dry air. The moisture that your skin normally relies on begins to fade, leaving it dry, flaky, and sometimes irritated. During this time, it’s essential to make a few changes to your shower routine to keep your skin nourished and hydrated. Simple adjustments can help preserve your skin’s natural moisture and prevent it from becoming overly dry. Whether it’s choosing the right body wash or changing the way you dry off, small steps can make a big difference in how your skin feels. By adopting a few key habits, you can maintain soft, smooth skin throughout the season without dealing with the discomfort of dryness.
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Switch to a Hydrating Body Wash
As winter progresses, the colder air can strip your skin of moisture, leaving it feeling dry and tight. This is the time to switch your body wash to one that focuses on hydration rather than just cleansing. Look for body washes that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin. These ingredients help lock in moisture while cleaning your skin. Additionally, using a hydrating body wash will prevent your skin from feeling parched post-shower. Avoid body washes with harsh chemicals or fragrances that may further dry out your skin.
A great option to consider is Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash, which is designed to be gentle on dry skin while keeping it moisturized. It is fragrance-free and enriched with natural oils to replenish the skin’s moisture. Priced at around $9 for 16 ounces, it is a great value for those looking for a hydrating option to combat dry skin.
Use Warm Water Instead of Hot Water
Hot showers can feel great during the cold winter months, but the intense heat can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opting for warm water instead of hot will keep your skin from becoming dehydrated. Hot water can lead to an increase in dryness, irritation, and even redness. By using warm water, you help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing further damage.
To complement this, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel can be applied after your shower to provide intense hydration. This gel formula is lightweight and quickly absorbed, making it perfect for locking in moisture after a warm shower. At about $19 for a 1.7-ounce jar, it offers long-lasting moisture that keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day.
Incorporate a Moisturizing Shower Oil
Switching to a shower oil is a game changer during the winter months. Shower oils are designed to hydrate your skin while you cleanse, leaving a protective barrier that locks in moisture. These oils are gentle on dry, irritated skin, and their nourishing properties make them perfect for combating winter dryness. When applied to wet skin, they create a silky texture that prevents your skin from feeling tight after you shower.
One highly recommended product is L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil. This oil transforms into a rich, soft lather and leaves skin feeling smooth and moisturized. It is priced at $25 for 8.4 ounces, and the subtle almond scent adds a touch of luxury to your shower routine while nourishing your skin.
Exfoliate Less Frequently
During winter, exfoliating too often can further dry out your skin. Instead of exfoliating every day, try doing so once or twice a week. Over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it more prone to irritation and dryness. If you are looking to keep your skin smooth without causing additional dryness, opt for a gentle exfoliator that helps slough off dead skin cells without being too abrasive.
A great exfoliating product is CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser, which contains salicylic acid to gently exfoliate without drying the skin. At $14 for 8 ounces, this product is ideal for those who need a gentle exfoliation to prevent buildup of dry skin without stripping the moisture.
Avoid Fragrance-Heavy Products
Fragrances can be irritating to dry skin, especially during the winter months. Opting for fragrance-free or naturally scented products will help keep your skin from becoming irritated. Scented products can sometimes cause the skin to dry out, leading to inflammation and sensitivity. By choosing fragrance-free options, you protect your skin’s barrier and keep it hydrated.
Vanicream Moisturizing Cream is a great fragrance-free option that provides long-lasting moisture without irritation. This thick, non-greasy cream is ideal for sensitive skin and helps to lock in hydration. Priced at $15 for 16 ounces, it is an excellent product for those with dry or sensitive skin.
Avoid Over-Shaving
Shaving during the winter months can contribute to dryness, especially if you are not moisturizing properly after the shave. Try to avoid over-shaving, as it can strip moisture from your skin and cause irritation. Using a moisturizing shaving cream is important to ensure your skin remains hydrated while you shave. Additionally, shaving less often can help preserve the natural oils your skin needs to stay hydrated.
Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel is a great choice for keeping your skin hydrated while shaving. This gel is formulated with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and protect your skin while reducing irritation. At around $6 for 7 ounces, it offers a gentle, moisturizing shave that won’t dry out your skin.
Opt for a Moisturizing Post-Shower Lotion
The post-shower period is when your skin is most receptive to moisture. Applying a thick, hydrating body lotion right after you shower helps lock in hydration before your skin dries out. Choose a lotion that contains ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or jojoba oil, as these ingredients help replenish and seal in moisture.
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a fantastic option for post-shower hydration. It contains colloidal oatmeal, which soothes dry skin and helps retain moisture. Priced at $7 for 18 ounces, it is an affordable choice for those looking for all-day moisture without greasy residue.
Choose a Gentle Exfoliating Treatment
Exfoliating is important to remove dead skin cells, but in winter, it’s essential to choose a treatment that won’t strip the skin. A mild, chemical exfoliator is perfect for winter since it helps to slough off dead skin without the need for harsh scrubbing. Products containing mild exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can help improve skin texture without causing dryness.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a gentle yet effective choice. This liquid exfoliant helps to unclog pores while removing dead skin cells and improving skin texture. Priced at $29 for 4 ounces, it’s a great investment for anyone looking for a mild exfoliator that won’t irritate dry skin.
Try a Honey-Infused Body Scrub
Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin. Using a honey-infused body scrub is a great way to exfoliate while keeping your skin hydrated. The sugar in these scrubs acts as a gentle exfoliant, while honey works to lock in moisture. Look for products that combine honey with soothing oils like coconut or almond oil for extra hydration.
Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub in Tropical Mango is a wonderful option for exfoliating with added moisture. It contains honey and shea butter, which help to moisturize while sloughing off dead skin. Priced at $8 for 18 ounces, it is a great value and leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated after use.
Switch to a Sensitive Skin Shampoo
When winter hits, not only does your body suffer from dryness, but your scalp can also become dry and flaky. A gentle, hydrating shampoo is essential for keeping your scalp moisturized during the colder months. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free and contain ingredients like argan oil or aloe vera, which soothe and hydrate the scalp.
Head & Shoulders Supreme Moisture Shampoo is a fantastic choice for dry scalp and hair. It is formulated with aloe vera and argan oil, which help to hydrate and soothe the scalp while preventing flakes. Priced at around $7 for 13.5 ounces, it is affordable and effective in maintaining a healthy scalp throughout the winter season.
Opt for a Silicone-Free Conditioner
Conditioners that contain silicones can leave a coating on your skin and hair, which can prevent moisture from being absorbed. During winter, it’s best to choose a conditioner that is free from silicones to ensure your skin and hair get the moisture they need. Silicone-free conditioners typically contain nourishing oils and natural extracts that help repair and hydrate without the build-up.
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner is an excellent silicone-free option. Packed with shea butter and argan oil, it deeply nourishes both hair and scalp. Priced at $10 for 13 ounces, it’s an affordable product that helps restore moisture to your hair and keep it hydrated in the dry winter months.
Avoid Hot Showers and Long Soaks
Hot showers might seem comforting during the winter months, but they can be drying for your skin. Prolonged exposure to hot water can strip away essential oils, leaving your skin more vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Instead, opt for shorter, lukewarm showers to maintain your skin’s natural moisture levels. If you enjoy soaking, consider a bath with added moisturizing oils or oatmeal to soothe your skin.
Aromatherapy Associates Forest Therapy Bath Oil is a great addition to your bath routine. This luxurious oil combines the soothing scents of pine and sandalwood while nourishing your skin with vitamin E and essential oils. Priced at $50 for 1.7 ounces, it is a splurge-worthy option that provides both relaxation and hydration.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.