Cold weather can take a serious toll on your skin. Dry skin can lead to discomfort and, if neglected, can affect your skin’s elasticity, which can cause premature fine lines and wrinkles. It can also trigger outbreaks of irritated skin.

To prevent this, there are some helpful things you can do to support your skin, and keep your skin feeling healthy and hydrated all season long.

Drink water. Hydrating your body from the inside out plays an important role in keeping skin supple and soft. When you’re dehydrated, the body pulls water from any source it can, including your skin. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 8 cups of water a day.

Hydrate with food. You can also boost your internal water reserves by eating foods rich in water, nutrients, vitamins and beneficial fats and oils. Fish, nuts and avocados all contain plenty of essential nutrients that help promote well-hydrated skin. Foods like cucumber, zucchini, lettuce and watermelon also naturally have a high concentration of water. 

Use body lotion. Your skin naturally loses moisture throughout the day through evaporation, but you can help confine the hydration you add from bathing by adding a layer of quality lotion.

An option like Remedy Dermatology Series Moisturizing Body Lotion contains a proprietary botanical blend of nutrients, emollients and antioxidants, including green tea, clove and safflower oleosomes. Its smooth, rich formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft with no greasy or oily residue. Formulated by skin care experts, the lotion helps skin stay moisturized for up to 24 hours and is free of 80 of the most common allergens that contribute to rashes and skin sensitivity. 

Protect skin. Exposure to harsh weather can quickly dry and chap your skin, so any time you’ll be outdoors, especially for extended periods of time, be sure to cover up exposed areas. Keep an extra set of gloves and a scarf in your vehicle so you’re prepared for unexpected time outdoors, whether from an accident or impromptu stop at a local park for some fresh air and exercise. 

Photograph by Zinkevych / Getty Images

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