Toni Haubert typically loves to walk to work, but not in winter.
"I am not a fan of cold weather, not my favorite season," Haubert told ABC30.
The cold weather is hard on her skin.
"I notice that my face is much dryer. My elbows tend to get a little cracked, as well as my hands," Haubert said.
The dry air of winter dehydrates skin, especially on extremities, which have fewer oil glands. Dermatologist Dr. Carolyn Jacob says the first thing to do is adopt a simple skin regimen.
"Put your lotions on immediately after you get out of the shower. You want to barely pat dry so there's still moisturizer on your skin and then trap it in with the lotions or creams that you chose to use," Carolyn Jacob, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist, Director, Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, told ABC30.
She says the best moisturizers contain ceramides.
"When it gets dried out, you lose some of that natural moisturizing factor and with the products that have ceramides in it, it helps your skin to make more of that natural moisturizing factor," Dr. Jacob said.
Dr. Jacob also recommends adjusting your diet.
"Foods that are good for your skin would be ones that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as flax seed, salmon, or walnuts," Dr. Jacob explained.
Also, try actually wearing your food, like olive oil. Studies show it soothes and conditions itchy, dry skin and removes makeup. And when your skin feels extra parched, dab a thin layer under your moisturizer for an extra dose of antioxidants.
Dr. Jacob says that when the temperature drops, the humidity level plunges too. Turning up the thermostat doesn't help either. Indoor heating strips even more moisture from the air and your skin. Install a humidifier in your home to keep air moist. Set humidity at a constant 45 to 55 percent and the temperature at a balmy 68°F.
For more information, contact:
Judy Foley
Patient Entry Coordinator
Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology
jfoley@chicagodermatology.com
(312) 245-9965 ext. 103
