How to hydrate the skin in winter

Winter is a difficult season for the skin. Colder temperatures and heated environments can lead to dehydration, which in turn can cause dryness, irritation, and itching. Before discovering how to keep the skin hydrated in winter, let's take a closer look at how the skin works and why it is more exposed to risks in winter.

How does the skin work?

The skin is a vital organ that performs various functions, including protecting the body from external agents, regulating body temperature, and absorbing nutrients. The skin is composed of three main layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis.

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, made up of dead cells that are continuously renewed. The dermis is the middle layer of the skin, composed of collagen and elastin fibers, which provide elasticity and support to the skin. Finally, the hypodermis is the deepest layer made up of adipose tissue, which helps to insulate the body from the cold.

The skin is able to maintain hydration thanks to the presence of a lipid barrier, composed of sebum and ceramides. The lipid barrier prevents water from evaporating from the skin and keeps the skin hydrated.

In winter, however, this normal skin protection mechanism can be compromised.

The risks of cold on the skin 

 In winter, the skin is more exposed to dehydration for several reasons:

• The coldest temperatures reduce sebum production, which makes the skin drier.
• Heated environments, such as homes and offices, can reduce air humidity, which can dehydrate the skin.
• The wind and cold can damage the skin's lipid barrier, making it more vulnerable to dehydration.

Let's see what we can do to ensure we have soft, hydrated, and protected skin even in winter.

Here's how to hydrate the skin even in winter  

• Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Washing too often or with water that is too hot can remove the skin's natural oils, making it drier.
• Apply a moisturizing cream every day, morning and evening. Choose a moisturizing cream rich in nourishing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and plant oils.
• Drink plenty of water. Hydration from the inside is as important as hydration from the outside. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Avoid exposure to wind and cold. When you go out, remember to wear gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your skin from the wind and cold.
• Take a warm bath or a shower with lukewarm water. Hot water can dehydrate the skin, so it's important not to overdo it.
• Use a humidifier at home. The humidifier helps to keep the air moist, which can help prevent skin dehydration.
• Exfoliate once a week. The scrub helps remove dead skin cells, leaving it smoother and more hydrated.

What ingredients to look for for skin hydration even in winter?

Here are some moisturizing ingredients that should be present in creams and serums for skin care in winter:

• Hyaluronic acid: it is a natural component of the skin that retains water.
• Glycerin: it is a humectant that helps retain water in the skin.
• Vegetable oils: vegetable oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil, and argan oil, are rich in fatty acids that help keep the skin hydrated.