Dry Skin Care Manchester NH

Dry Skin Solutions

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Q My skin tends to get very dry in the winter. I use a lot of lotion but I’d like to know what else I can do.

A Low humidity, central heating (especially warm air pumped through ducts) and cold, windy weather all contribute to dry, flaky, and often itchy skin during the winter months. Lotions can help temporarily, but attending to the underlying causes of dryness will benefit you more.

Ayurveda attributes the drying effects of winter to an increase in vata, with its dry, cold, and moving properties. Ayurvedic theory states that our bodies take on the qualities predominant in nature during any particular season. To fight the drying qualities of winter, ayurveda recommends hydrating adequately with water but also using vegetable-based oils to protect the skin and help it hold in its own moisture.

Try adding more healthy fats to your diet during the winter. Instead of steaming your vegetables, you might stir-fry them in olive or sunflower oil, making sure to keep the heat no higher than medium so you don’t smoke the oil and degrade the fats. Also, add a teaspoon of olive oil to your grains as they cook. Ground flaxseed, nuts, and avocados are other wholesome sources of healthy oils. It’s also important that you drink enough fluids. Opt for pure spring water rather than dehydrating caffeinated drinks. Warm (or room-temperature) beverages are best during the winter. Drink one glass every one to two hours during the day.

The greatest skin secret from ayurveda lies in actually applying or massaging vegetable oils directly onto your skin. Do this before your bath or shower to protect your skin from the drying effects of the water, as well as to maximize absorption of the oil into the skin. Just after your bath, if your skin needs additional moisturizing, apply an organic lotion or skin cream to further lock in your skin’s moisture for the day.

A good oil choice for all body types? Cold-pressed and, ideally, organic olive oil. If you have very dry skin, almond oil will lubricate the skin more. For those with oily skin or strong kapha tendencies (nonsensitive skin but too much weight), sesame oil is the best choice. If you have serious fluid retention in your legs, skip the oil altogether.

For each mini-massage, you’ll need 1/8 to 1/4 cup of your oil of choice. Apply the oil to your entire body, starting with your scalp and moving down, ending with your feet. Use the palms of your hands and rub the oil in gently. Use up-and-down strokes over your long bones and circular strokes over your joints. Massage clockwise over your abdomen and up and down on your back, the best that you can reach.

After your massage, step into a warm shower or bath. Your skin should feel smoother, and your mind and body will be more relaxed and supple all day.

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