A Pain in the Ash!

Kick dry, ashy skin to the curb and maximize moisture with these helpful suggestions. 

Beautiful, soft and smooth skin is your best accessory- it accentuates hue. So you have to keep it healthy for it to glow and be supple to the touch. But,we all know when the Jack frost nips at more than your nose, your skin will the bare the affects of cruel winter breezes. As the temps drops, our skin becomes flaky, dry and cracked. As the cold weather robs your skin of vital moisture, the skins outer layer loses its natural oils-resulting in (you guessed it) ASH! Routinely, most of us have a basic moisture regime to combat dryness, but some simple changes or product change regain moisture levels back. Note the plan of action.

Ash Enhancer: Indoor heat and harsh climates
Over heated rooms and lowered temps can zap moisture levels leaving your skin thirsty and cracked. As your skin works to protect  from the elements, the good stuffs struggles to stay in and the bad stuff can easily infiltrate your skin barrier, leaving skin open to irritation and/or infection. This is very important to know especially for those with a weakened immune system.

Skin Defense
Humectants draw moisture to the skin's surface. Start by prepping with a creamy moisturizer beforehand. Nourishing body lotions will do the trick. I love lotions with a thick consistency and aloe. As for indoor heat, consider using a humidifier to balance the hot air to prevent the effects of drying.

Ash Enhancer: In hot Water for to Long
The verdict is in; 'guilty as charged'. I'm sure most of us can testify to bathing or showering to long. Probably, longer that reasonable needed. Not only are we wasting water...we're over exposing our skin to harsh and high temperatures. All the natural oils on the skin's surface are being washed down the drain.

Skin Defense
Limit time to 3-5 minutes max in the shower and possibly 10 minutes taking baths. (that maybe too long). But, because I know this may be a bit of a challenge- we'll take baby steps. Instead of bathing/showering in hot water, bring it down to luke. This'll be about the same temperature for a baby. Use a mild soap to prevent over dryness. Moisturize skin once your done and utilize the 3 minute rule. In this small time, liberally smooth on creams and lotions. Avoid waiting longer than 3 minutes to slather up, as your skin may have dried out. This also lowers the effectiveness of lotions. Lastly, don't rub- pat yourself dry.

Ash Enhancer: As we get older, our hormones change and estrogen levels drop. Impacting our skin functions, lowered amounts of natural oils and moisture we produce are no longer the same. Skin loses it's ability to retain its youthful glow and absorbency.

Skin Defense:
Incorporate omega fish oils (hydration) and vitamin D (integrates other hormones). Skin re-surfacing treatments may be another option. Personally, I believe with proper nourishment and a healthy lifestyle this may not be needed at all. But, for more extreme cases, it may be best to look into. Anti-oxidants rich and hydrating products that are safe for all skin types may be a better investment. By following just a few simple suggestions, skin can be clearer, smoother and younger. Skin that is free of impurities and toxins, appears radiant and healthier. Health is your greatest asset and skin is the bank! Love, nourish and moisturize the skin you're in.