Dry, cool air can cause anyone’s skin to dry out. Winter itch and dry skin is easily caused by the drop in temperature and humidity levels, mixed with central heating, space heaters and fireplaces. Here are some tips and secrets to keep your dry itchy winter skin at bay.
Get a Chemical Free Glow
Many harmful chemicals are added to make-up that women wear everyday. Eye lash enhancing mascara may use formaldehyde, and lipstick often contains plastic resins. Foundation makeup may include chemical solvents that are carcinogenic. These chemicals can not only be harming your health, but can take some of the natural luster away from your skin. Instead opt for mineral make-ups and ones that contain only natural ingredients.
Moisturize
For a deeply moisturizing treatment, gently rub your skin with calendula oil twice a day. To bring relief from tight and itchy skin, mix in ten drops of Tonic Oil (wintergreen, eucalyptus, and menthol) with fresh aloe gel; apply liberally and frequently!
Or you can try an herbal moisturizer. Regeneration Cream is my formula that is a natural Chinese formula that contains Angelica root, which is a highly-prized herb for nourishment and promoting youthful, beautiful skin. It can also help with the appearance of age spots and scars.
Stay Hydrated
Keep hydrated and drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses of water per day. Dryness, in general, is a condition caused by depleted internal fluids. While you are drinking water, try to drink filtered water to avoid some of the added chemicals that can be found in some tap water. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and coffee.
Take Your Vitamins
A fluid deficiency can result in skin dryness. One suggestion is to be sure that you are getting your proper vitamin intake; vitamins A, B-Complex, and E support healthy skin. Vitamin E can also be applied directly to the skin at elbows, knees, or anywhere that is especially dry. Vitamin E capsules can also be opened to rub on dry areas as well.
Shower Quickly
Long hot baths and showers remove oils from your skin. Keep your bath or shower time to under 15 minutes, and use warm, rather than hot, water. After washing, gently pat yourself dry with a towel to keep some moisture on your skin.
Then moisturize. Also, keep in mind that harsh deodorant and antibacterial soaps are damaging to your skin, stripping it of lipids and moisture. If you have dry skin, it’s best to use mild soaps with added oil and moisturizer. After cleansing, your skin should never feel tight or dry.
Exfoliate
Try body brushing by using a dry, natural bristle brush to sweep the surface of your whole body. This eliminates dead skin cells, increases circulation to the skin, boosts skin immunity against infection and nurtures a vibrant skin tone.
You can also exfoliate with an all natural facemask used by Chinese imperial courtesans for centuries. Mix seaweed, kelp, pearl powder, dried plum, winter melon seed, persimmon leaf, and cane sugar moistened with water and place in a blender with aloe vera gel or egg white to make a paste. Scrub gently with a wet loofah sponge, using small circular motions, until face and neck are thoroughly exfoliated. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes, and then wash off. Be sure to keep the mask away from your eye area.
Keep Warm
Keep covered up to avoid excessive exposure to sun and wind. Be kind to your skin and choose natural fiber fabrics, such as cotton or silk, which will let your skin breath. Also, use gentle laundry detergents to wash your clothes, avoid those with dyes or perfumes, both of which may irritate your skin.
May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
Dr. Mao Shing Ni, best known as Dr. Mao is a bestselling author, doctor of Oriental Medicine and board certified anti-aging expert. He has appeared regularly on “Dr. Oz,” “The Doctors,” and “EXTRA.” Dr. Mao practices acupuncture, nutrition, and Chinese medicine with his associates at the Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica and Newport Beach. Dr. Mao and his brother, Dr. Daoshing Ni founded Tao of Wellness more than 25 years ago in addition to also founding Yo San University in Marina del Rey. To subscribe to his tip-filled newsletter please visit www.taoofwellness.com. To make an appointment for evaluation and treatment please call 310.917.2200 or you can email Dr. Mao at ontact@taoofwellness.com.
