Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and as such, requires care to ensure the health of the rest of the organism. Environmental temperatures can have a significant effect on the health of your skin. When it’s hot, sweat glands take over the task of cooling. When it’s cold out, your skin can suffer from the extreme conditions. Here are a few strategies to consider that will ensure that your skin looks good and feels good, regardless of the season of year.
Cold Weather Dryness
Skin exposure during cold weather contracts cells on the surface, which can inhibit circulation. Cold winds can dry out skin moisture, leading to dryness, roughness and cracking. In addition, interior spaces are heated during the cold months. Indoor air can be extremely dry and can remove natural skin oils. Heated air can leave you with dry, itchy skin that feels uncomfortable. You should always use a moisturizer during the winter months to replace the natural fluids that are removed by environmental factors. Take particular care of skin that is exposed when you are outdoors in cold weather.
Hot Weather
When temperatures rise, the skin is subject to different problems. An uncomfortable heat rash can develop in covered areas of the body. Hot, dry winds can pull moisture from the skin surface. And sun exposure can cause wrinkling and cell damage. Another issue is perspiration. On the surface, sweat is good for the skin, hydrating and exfoliating your skin with water, minerals, and salt; on the other hand, the impurities that sweating helps flush can remain on your skin and reabsorb them if you’re not careful.
You can reduce hot weather skin problems by covering up against harsh sunlight and wearing lightweight clothing that breathes, such as cotton or linen. These fabrics will allow air to flow over the skin surface, reducing the skin of heat rash. You can also make sure to call air conditioning services if your HVAC system isn’t up to par.
Sunburn
Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can also lead to abnormal skin cell reproduction that is associated with skin cancer, so you should always protect your skin when out in the sun. Use sunscreen products with an SPF of at least 30, and bring along a hat and lightweight shirt to cover up to protect your skin against too much exposure. Skin experts recommend using a moisturizer with sunscreen throughout the year, to protect against damaging rays.
Most women develop a skin care routine early in their lives and stick to it over the years. However, you should periodically access the environmental effects on your skin and consider some new techniques to ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your skin healthy. Skin care products and regular care can help to ensure that your skin is protected, at all times of the year.