Keep Your Skin Glowing When Winter Winds Are Blowing!
by Sheila McCormick on January 13th, 2010
Loading ...Winter weather can wreak havoc on your complexion and leave you with dry, lackluster skin. Extremes of temperature, gusty winds, space heaters, central heating and fireplaces all contribute to low humidity levels. As a result, many people experience skin that flakes, chaps or feels “tight.” Fortunately, there are many natural remedies for dry skin and some of them are as near as your kitchen.
Olive oil has long been heralded as an antidote for dry skin. It can be used to groom dry cuticles and sooth and condition itchy, dry skin all over the body. Try putting a thin layer of extra-virgin olive oil on your skin under your moisturizer for extra protection on bitterly cold winter days. Honey is another tried and true remedy for dry skin, especially chapped lips, cracked heels or rough elbows. Just apply a little bit to the affected areas.
To keep skin glowing, try using a natural facial mask once a week to remove dull, dry surface skin cells. Mash half of an avocado and mix in a few drops of lemon juice. Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Dab off the excess with a tissue and rinse the skin alternately with cold and warm water.
Many women (and men) find that taking a milk bath once a week is extremely helpful for relieving dry skin. Warm your bath water and put in a few tablespoons of powdered milk along with a dash of almond oil. The milk will nourish and soften your skin and relax tired muscles.
Be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and get sufficient sleep because that is when the body repairs damaged skin cells. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because they have a diuretic effect that causes the body and the skin cells to lose fluids. Because a vibrant complexion requires good care from the inside out, it is important to eat a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds and nuts. Foods such as garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus are high in sulfur, which helps to keep the skin smooth and young-looking. Cantaloupes, carrots and apricots help nourish skin because they contain vitamins A and C.
Unrefined, cold-pressed flax seed oil contains the essential omega-3 fatty acids that are necessary for healthy skin. Try adding a bit of flax seed oil to salads or baked potatoes. There are many nutritional supplements available that can help keep your skin cells strong and boost moisture content. Look for supplements that contain primrose oil, vitamin E, tea tree oil and/or lavender.
Wear gloves, scarves and caps to keep your hair and skin protected so your skin will still be glowing when the winter winds are blowing!
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