How to take care of dry skin in winter

 Our skin is the most sensitive part of our body and needs extra care in winters. Before knowing about how to take care of our (dry) skin, we must know why our skin gets dry. There can be many reasons for this such as- using harsh soaps, frequently bathing, aging or certain medical conditions. 

Dry skin is a common skin condition, which can also be a result of Vitamin D deficiency. Dry skin occurs when skin doesn't retain sufficient moisture. 

In winter time our skin gets dry because humidity is low both outdoors and indoors, and the water content of the outermost layer of the skin tends to reflect the level of humidity around it.

Anatomy of the skin:-

The skin has three layers, each with a distinct role. The innermost layer consists of subcutaneous fat, which provides insulation, energy storage, and shock absorption. Above that is the dermis, which contains blood vessels, nerves, sweat and oil glands, and hair follicles. The top layer is the epidermis, the skin's main protective barrier and the level where drying occurs. It consists of stacked layers of cells that are constantly in transition, as younger, living cells rise from the lower part of the epidermis and eventually die and fall off after reaching the surface. This continuous cycle completely renews the skin about once a month. 

Skin moisturizers, which rehydrate the epidermis and seal in the moisture, are the first step in combating dry skin. 

Dry skin is usually not a serious health problem, but it can produce serious complications, such as chronic eczema (red patches) or bleeding from fissures that have become deep enough to disrupt capillaries in the dermis. Another possible complication is secondary bacterial infection (redness, swelling, and pus), which may require antibiotics

Some ways to combat dry skin:- 

● Use lukewarm water rather than hot water, which can wash away natural oils. 

● Minimize your use of soaps. 

● Bath oils can be helpful. 

● Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing or after washing your hands. 

● Never, ever scratch. Most of the time, a moisturizer can control the itch.

● Avoid bath sponges, scrub brushes, and washcloths. 

● Limit yourself to one 5- to 10-minute bath or shower daily. 

● Avoid wearing wool and other fabrics that can irritate the skin. 

● Using a thick moisturizer and a humidifier may help to soothe dryness. 

● Avoiding alcohol, caffeine and tobacco may also relieve dry mouth and dry skin. 

● Creating a homemade avocado facial mask will smoothen your skin and prevent you from getting dry skin. 

● Drink a lot of water and keep yourself hydrated