With the winter months rolling in, the cold and dry air can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it feeling dehydrated, flaky and tight. This condition can happen to anyone, regardless of age or skin type.

However, there are measures you can take to prevent and combat dehydrated skin during the colder months. Here are some tips to help you restore your skin’s moisture and keep it healthy throughout the winter season.

1. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating systems, like furnaces, can cause dry air indoors. A humidifier can help add moisture back into the air, which in turn hydrates your skin.

Aim to set the humidity level around 40-50% to ensure your skin receives the right amount of moisture to prevent dehydration.

2. Drink plenty of water

While it may seem obvious, staying properly hydrated by drinking water can improve the health of your skin. Water helps to flush out toxins in your body, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy cell turnover for radiant, glowing skin.

3. Moisturize often

To prevent dehydrated skin, you need to apply a good moisturizer. Look for a moisturizer that is rich in humectants, such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which help to attract and retain moisture in your skin.

Apply moisturizer to your face and body at least twice daily, immediately after bathing. This will help to lock in moisture and maintain hydration levels in your skin. It’s also a good idea to keep an extra bottle of moisturizer in your bag for touch-ups throughout the day.

4. Choose the right cleanser

Cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing dehydration. Opt for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.

Stay away from hot water, too, as it can also strip the skin’s barrier and cause further dryness. Wash your face with lukewarm water instead and pat dry with a towel rather than rubbing it.

5. Exfoliate gently

Gentle exfoliation is important to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and prevent moisturizer from properly hydrating your skin.

However, over-exfoliating can cause more harm than good as it can strip your skin of essential oils and damage your skin’s barrier. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week with a nonabrasive, gentle exfoliant to avoid over-exfoliating and causing further dryness.

6. Protect your skin from the sun

Even in the winter, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. Snow can reflect up to 80% of UVA and UVB rays, which can cause damage and dryness to your skin.

In addition, the cold winter winds can chap and dry out your skin even more. To prevent further dehydration and sun damage, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily, and wear protective clothing and hats.

7. Eat a balanced diet

What you eat plays a big role in the health of your skin. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, can help strengthen the skin’s barrier and improve hydration levels.

Eating foods with plenty of vitamins C and E, like spinach, kale, nuts, and citrus fruits, can also help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.

8. Reduce stress levels

Chronic stress can trigger inflammation in your body, and studies have shown that stress can affect the skin’s barrier function and cause dehydration.

Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress and improve the health of your skin.

9. Avoid long, hot showers

Long, hot showers or baths may feel good, but they can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing further dryness and dehydration.

Instead, opt for shorter showers with lukewarm water, and use gentle cleansers, like body washes or bar soaps, that contain hydrating ingredients like aloe vera.