1.Use body cream and NOT lotion
It’s no secret our African mothers raised us on lotions and a lot of popular household brands like Nivea over the years have produced more lotions, scented with a wide range but over time we have to understand that lotions have less moisture unlike body creams. Body creams are heavier on the skin and as such trap moisture from escaping the body and effectively keeping our skin glowy and of course the body keeps warm since less heat escapes as well. Nivea, Vaseline have these in a wide range in almost all stores and have really worked for me (cocoa butter in particular). Do check them out at pharmacies, Dischem and Clicks. Epimax is my personal fave (I use it even during the summer) and my skin is always popping.
2.Avoid over exfoliating
As much as we have to exfoliate to keep our skin rejuvenated, doing a lot of it in winter if you have dry skin can do away with the moisture on our skin and leave it looking dry, itchy and uncomfortable. One session per week will do for people with normal skin.
3.Drink a lot of water
This sounds so cliche but it’s really true, water is medicine and is the skin’s best friend. Drink about 3 liters per day to moisturize the skin from the inside. Fun fact about water; drinking a lot of water can help you lose weight by increasing metabolism and therefore burning calories faster so ladies, y’all really want to do this *wink wink*
4.Moisturize immediately after taking a shower
Bathing takes away almost all our moisture and the period between which we finish bathing and stay without applying cream is very dangerous. Do yourself a favour and apply the cream immediately to seal the moisture easily into the wet skin.
5.Bath with lukewarm water
Hot water isn’t your friend! Studies have shown that hot water opens up the skin pores, resulting in moisture loss, leaving your skin dry, tight and itchy, which is very frustrating.
6.Use DIY masks
Use home made masks to give your skin the moisture it needs. Ingredients like avocado, honey, olive oil, banana contain natural moisture to make a paste. Apply the paste to the skin for about 10-25 mins then rinse and wipe gently.
What is your winter skin care routine? Please share on the comment section below to let me know how you keep your skin properly moisturized and happy.
