Winter can be brutal on your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, irritated and itchy. Cold temperatures, dry indoor air, and harsh winds strip away moisture, weakening your skin’s natural barrier.
I struggled to understand why my skin wasn't feeling as resilient as it usually did, but after doing research and finding ways to combat the Canadian harsh weather, I found three ways you can fight back with simple, science-backed strategies.
Here are three effective ways to keep your skin hydrated and healthy all winter long.
1. Take a Dead Sea Salt Bath for Deep Hydration
Dead Sea Salt isn’t just any salt—it’s packed with over 20 minerals, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which help replenish the skin’s moisture and improve barrier function. Research shows that bathing in Dead Sea salt can significantly reduce inflammation and improve hydration levels in dry, sensitive skin. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that participants with dry skin who soaked in magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt baths experienced improved skin hydration and reduced redness.
How to use it:
-
Add 1-2 cups of Dead Sea Salt to warm bathwater.
-
Soak for 15-20 minutes, allowing your skin to absorb the minerals.
-
Pat dry and apply a moisturizer immediately to lock in hydration.
2. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier with Protective Products
Your skin barrier acts as a shield against environmental stressors, but winter conditions can weaken it, leading to increased water loss and irritation. Using occlusive and humectant-rich skincare products helps to reinforce the barrier and retain moisture.
Key Ingredients to Look For:
-
Ceramides: Essential for repairing and maintaining the skin barrier.
-
Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that attracts water into the skin.
- Mango Butter & Oils (like Castor or Apricot): Provide an occlusive layer to prevent moisture loss.
A study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlights that ceramide-based moisturizers significantly improve hydration and barrier function in individuals with dry skin conditions, making them a winter must-have.
Pro Tip: Apply your moisturizer to damp skin after bathing to enhance absorption and maximize hydration.
3. Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods & Take Supplements for Skin Health
What you put into your body directly impacts your skin’s ability to stay hydrated. A diet rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins helps support the skin barrier from the inside out. This is an area I learned the hard way! Check out The Skin Deep Podcast to hear my story on how I gave myself a Histamine Intolerance!
Key Nutrients for Hydrated Skin:
-
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (found in salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds): Reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity.
-
Vitamin C (found in citrus fruits and bell peppers): Boosts collagen production and protects against environmental damage.
- Zinc (found in pumpkin seeds and lentils): Supports skin repair and barrier function.
Research from the Dermatology Practical and Conceptual suggests that omega-3 supplementation helps combat dry skin by enhancing lipid production, which prevents moisture loss.
Pro Tip: If you struggle to get these nutrients from food alone, consider high-quality supplements to support your skin from within.
Dry winter skin doesn’t have to be your reality. By incorporating Dead Sea salt baths, barrier-protecting skincare, and nutrient-rich foods, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing—even in the harshest winter months. Stay consistent with these habits, and your skin will thank you!
Leave a comment