It happens – as the cold air moves in and settles there is less moisture in the air. And as we use every method available to stay warm we essentially add to the problems. The result – our skin becomes dry and flaky – we suffer from alligator skin!
Our lips become chapped and we develop itchy skin. When we reach this point we begin grasping for anything that may offer some relief. Fortunately there are some easy remedies – keep reading for some suggestions.
Chapped Lips
First let’s talk about how to prevent chapped lips. Most people can actually avoid the problem with a little effort. Use a wax balm or even a moisture-rich lipstick to protect your lips from drying out.
After the cracking begins you have to use a different treatment. You need to use a heavy emollient. These are available in pots as well as squeeze tubes. Apply the emollient often and the healing process will begin quickly.
Dry Skin
Some of the simple things you can do for or for the prevention of dry skin is to take shorter baths and showers. You should use warm water instead of hot and opt for mild soaps or skin washes.
Moisturize your skin when you are fresh from the shower or bath. Just pat yourself dry and apply your moisturizer while skin is still damp. This locks in moisture.
Look for moisturizers that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone and/or glycerin. Petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and lanolin can be helpful moisturizers. A cool compress or hydrocortisone cream can be applied to red or inflamed skin.
Other tips include using a humidifier and wearing clothes made of natural fibers like cotton. In addition, drinking plenty of water and eating omega-3 rich foods can help moisturize the skin from the inside out.
Alligator skin may look great on reptiles, but not so much on people. These tips are from research completed by Debbie Allen – a member of the Package From Santa team.
