Hilda R. Smith 
While a cup of hot chocolate may be the best way to stay warm in the winter, it’s not just our bodies that need the extra love. No matter what skin type, dry, flaky skin can be a common problem in winters. Winter air is already dry, and indoor heating systems make it even worse by stripping the skin’s uppermost layer of moisture.
It doesn’t need to be complicated or contain too many products to make your skincare routine work. It’s all about balance and nourishment of your skin. No matter how simple or complex your routine may seem, it’s important to follow it consistently. Shraddha Gurung, a beauty influencer, said that a little goes a long ways.
LilMissGurung suggests these ways to combat dry skin.
Avoid over-washing your skin. It is the dry season, so washing your face too often will only make it worse. Limit it to 2 gentle cleans per day or as directed by your dermatologist.
*Switch to lukewarm water for a shorter bath. Hot showers can strip your skin of natural oils, making it even dryer.
*Hair care, hair fall and hair fall in monsoons. Make your hair look great with homemade shampoo. (Source: Getty/Thinkstock)
*Follow your routine using a thicker moisturiser, serums and/or facial oil.
*A quick background check of facial oils is a great way to make sure you are doing the right thing. You want oils that moisturize without clogging pores. You can add avocado and safflower oil to your daily routine.
*Moisturise your entire body the same way you moisturize your face. A great choice is to use moisturizing shower gels. However, you should follow this up with a body lotion/body cream depending on how dry you skin gets.
*Drink lots of water and eat healthy (leafy greens pomegranate eggs, etc.). Skincare products will not work if you aren’t nourishing your body and hydrating it from the inside.
*Mixing your foundation with facial oil/moisturiser can help to keep your makeup in place, without drying out your skin.
*Ghee can be used on dry chapped lips. It is a great overnight lip treatment that leaves your lips soft, moisturized, and healthy. Gurung said that the fatty acids found in it condition and nourish.
*A humidifier can also be used to retain moisture in the air and prevent your skin from drying.
*Cracked heels can also be a problem during winter. Apply thick moisturizer before you go to bed, and then wear socks over night. This will help you feel much better in a matter of days.
*Hyaluronic acid can be a blessing to your skin. There are many serums on the market, so adding one to your routine is a smart idea.
Dry skin is very common. While these hacks/best practices may help, it’s possible for dry skin to be caused by other medical conditions. In such cases, it is always a good idea to consult a dermatologist.
