Delhi’s dropping temperatures and worsening AQI have got people talking about the coldest days witnessed in years. And for us residents, it doesn’t come quite easy. We often resort to making extreme lifestyle changes and even sacrifice our favourite delicacies to keep ourselves from falling sick.
With an effort to stay healthy and energized, our skin may be easily overlooked, leaving it dry, chapped and under-nourished. To blame is the widespread pollution that exposes the skin to harmful substances such as air-borne toxins, smoke, and dust.
In order to help you protect your skin from biting cold and unyielding pollution, Dr. Shirin Bakshi enlists some of her tried-and-true practices for keeping your skin hydrated and glowing this winter season! As a dermatologist for 6+ years at a leading skin clinic in Delhi, she strongly believes how few steps can make a huge difference in navigating this winter season and beyond!
Skincare Regime to Follow This Winter Season
1. Moisturize thoroughly
“Because these pollutants dehydrate the skin and raise the risk of dryness and irritation, skin loses essential moisture.” Dr. Shirin goes on to say, “Over time, the pollution results in more pigmentation (dark areas), fine lines, and early wrinkles.”
“Dryness also causes pre-existing skin conditions including eczema, acne, and seborrhoeic dermatitis to flare up. The skin’s natural barrier may be compromised by prolonged contact, making it more vulnerable to infections and environmental damage.” – adds Dr. Shirin.
“This is why it is important to prevent the skin from drying out using a hydrating moisturizer that suits your skin type. Regularly hydrating upholds your skin’s barrier to pollutants and extreme weather conditions, while keeping eczema flare-ups in check and causing lesser acne breakouts.
“It is also advised to periodically apply a hydrating lip balm to keep lips from chapping — they don’t have to be expensive, any gel or liquid based formula would do” says Dr. Shirin.
Furthermore, the skin specialist in Delhi emphasizes to not miss out on scalp health by massing the roots with oils and serums to prevent scalp buildup in winters — which is one of the most common reasons for stubborn dandruff.
2. Don’t forget sunscreen
If you think sunscreen is a thing for the scorching heat of summers, you couldn’t be more wrong. According to the top dermatologist in Delhi Dr. Shirin,
“Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, preferably 50++ on a daily basis should be a routine even on cloudy days, as it shields the skin from harmful UV rays and prevents premature aging.
If you are heading outside, make sure to apply a layer of moisturizer and then sunscreen. You could find a moisturizing sunscreen easily in the market, but the skin calls for more hydration than ever. Try applying a night cream before going to bed so that the skin retains some moisture and then apply sunscreen during the day.”
3. Plan your diet accordingly
“Since this season brings abundance of fruits and vegetables, it is a golden opportunity to fortify your diet with Vitamin C, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids to help shield the skin from pollution’s harmful effects.”
Hence, foods like guavas, oranges, sweet potatoes, fish oil, and more can help you make up for the nutritional deficiencies contributing to skin dryness.
She also goes on to add that incorporating antioxidants like Vitamin C in your routine can further protect the skin by neutralising free radicals caused by pollution.
4. Use Lukewarm water for better results
It may be tempting to pour down all the hot water at once in this chilly season, but it may not be the best for your skin.
Dr. Shirin remarks, “It is important to refrain yourself from using hot water as it strips the skin off its natural oils, thus leaving it dry. Usually it may not be a problem for one or two baths, but people with eczema and psoriasis may experience painful flare-ups, requiring medical attention.”
With rising concerns for dandruff, overall dryness and hairfall, Dr. Shirin urges to utilize a water filter for taps and minimize using overheated water for washing hair and skin.
Takeaway
Delhi’s temperatures may not be for beginners, and it’s no surprise that one needs to be prepared for keeping oneself healthy throughout the season.
It’s time to take matters into your own hands! Follow these tips to stay strong, healthy and glowing this winter season. If any skin concerns such as dandruff, eczema, psoriasis or others continue bugging you, feel free to contact us at Dermasure, the best skin care clinic in Delhi for professional advice.
