Combat Dry Winter Skin

I cannot stand my skin in the winter. It gets dry, itchy and absolutely unbearable at times. Last year was, by far, the worst. I was 9 months pregnant and incredibly itchy! I started playing around with some routines and products and came up with some good ways to keep my skin hydrated, soft and healthy.

The hardest habit for me to kick was a hot shower. After a long day at the hospital all I wanted to do was come home and take a nice, long, hot shower. Unfortunately, hot water is one of the last things your skin needs! So, for the sake of my skin I turned it down a few degrees. I now take warm showers and baths. 

To cleanse my skin I use Dove's Gentle Exfoliating Bar to help slough off some of the dead cells dry skin causes. I also use sugar (yep, sugar) twice a week to really exfoliate my elbows and legs.

While in the shower, I've found that the Olay In Shower Body Lotion is a great first step in hydrating my skin. I use it at the end of each shower, rinse with warm water and then pat my skin dry. 

I learned in nursing school that in order to trap moisture for your skin you need to apply lotion or cream within 3 minutes. I thought it was bologna, but I did some experimenting and it truly does help! I apply Jergens Ultra Healing lotion to every surface I can reach. Don't be shy with this, ladies, really slather it on! I also am currently in love with Vaseline's new Sheer Infusion moisturizer. It feels so soft and velvety after applying without being greasy and heavy! 

Finally, if I happen to have the chance, I apply the Jergens or the Vaseline lotions again at the end of the day before bed. 

Give some of these ideas a whirl and your skin can also be healthy and radiant!