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We’re getting into the season of dry skin so now is as good a time as any to winterize your beauty routine. Many of us experience drier skin than normal in the fall and winter because the water in the skin evaporates more quickly in cold, dry air.
Keeping your skin properly hydrated is the best way to protect it from damage and prevent it from developing signs of aging. You should make it a point to moisturize your skin throughout the year, but it’s especially pertinent to moisturize in the winter.
And you don’t need to buy a ton of pricey beauty products to soothe your skin properly – there are a ton of home remedies you can easily find in a drugstore (or even in your own pantry) that can restore moisture to your skin.
1. Petroleum Jelly
If you experience rough, dry patches of skin you can try soothing it with petroleum jelly. It works fast and effectively to form a barrier on the top layer of skin, keeping moisture in to restore dryness. Petroleum jelly is not the best option for an everyday moisturizer, however. It is made with mineral oil, which can actually dry out skin in the long run.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a very restorative ingredient for the skin when used topically. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and nourish the skin. You can take an oatmeal bath to relieve dry skin throughout your body, by blending a cup of oatmeal into a fine powder then adding it into a bathtub. If your dry skin is confined to just your face, you may want to try making a DIY oatmeal face mask.
3. Coconut Oil
For skin that is both dry and sensitive, coconut oil is often the best choice. It is less likely to irritate delicate skin, and can even be used around the eyes or around your mouth. All you have to do is rub a small amount of coconut oil into your skin wherever it is dry. This remedy works, but it also can’t be used in place of a daily face cream as it is noticeably greasy on the skin.
4. Honey
There are quite a few food-based remedies for dry skin. Honey is another great solution because it is extremely moisturizing and can leave skin feeling soft and plump. Since it is a really sticky food, the best way to use honey as a skincare remedy is to mix it into a homemade face mask.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is extremely hydrating and is a great choice for oily skin since it absorbs easily into the skin. You can use it in place of a body lotion after showering to help lock-in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out. Like oatmeal and honey, aloe vera gel can also be made into a DIY face mask.
6. Milk
Believe it or not, but many skincare experts believe that drinking milk can help strengthen your skin and prevent it from drying out. This is because it is high in protein and retinol, which restore the skin’s elasticity and promote a plump texture.
