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Dry skin is a common condition in winter that can result in persistent itching and skin flaking. This happens when the moisture content of the outermost skin layer drops below normal levels. Dry skin affects everyone, but some people are more vulnerable to it than others.  

The skin has three layers. The outer layer consists of dead cells constantly shed and replaced by new cells generated at the base. The middle layer comprises connective tissues, while the deepest layer houses blood vessels, nerves and oil glands. Skin moisturizers prevent water from evaporating from the top layer of skin, while emollients fill in cracks between cells to stop moisture from escaping.

In addition, humectants attract water to the outer layer of skin, making its job more accessible as it keeps itself hydrated. It's essential to use a combination of moisturizers and emollients because dry skin often needs both kinds of help; one or two products isn't likely to be enough for dehydrated skin.  

Some basics for dry skincare: 

Dry skin in winter can be treated by simple things you may already have in your home:

• ‣ First, wash your hands regularly with warm water and gentle soap.  
  
  
• ‣ Next, use a good moisturizer after cleansing and before going to bed.  
  
  
• ‣ If your dry skin is really bad, then you can use some moisturizing gloves before going to sleep. They will help retain the moisture on your hands while you sleep.
  
  
• ‣ If you wear glasses, take them off once or twice a day and rub the palms of your hands over the lenses before cleaning them with a soft cloth. This will help remove any dead skin from your palms that could scratch the lenses when you put them back on again. 
  
  
• ‣ Wear cotton gloves at night instead of silk ones so that your hands get enough air.  
  
  
• ‣ When getting up in the morning, massage your face gently with warm water for about five minutes before taking a shower or bath.  

Diet changes to prevent dry skin in winter: 

First and foremost, drink adequate water because it's the best detoxifying element for your skin. In addition, water helps your skin pores to stay hydrated all day long.

Apart from that, some modifications in your regular healthy diet can help you prevent dry skin in winter: 

• ‣  Sweet potato is a good source of vitamin A
  
  
• ‣  Try to have Vitamin C enriched food like lemon, orange, kiwi, sweet red pepper, etc.  
  
  
• ‣ Cod liver oil is a significant source of Vitamin D, and it helps combat the effect of UV rays on the skin, heal wounds and reduce inflammation.  
  
  
• ‣ Soy, almond, or oat milk keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized. 
  
  
• ‣ Sunflower seeds consist of Vitamin E that helps your skin to reduce dry skin and pigmentation. 
  
  
• ‣ Oysters and baked beans consist of zinc that helps to reduce skin dryness and acne.  
  
  
• ‣ Avocado has a lot of omega3 that helps reduce itchiness and red spots on your skin.  
  
  
• ‣ Turmeric is made of a compound called Curcumin, a high anti-
  inflammatory ingredient. 
  
  
• ‣ Try natural supplements, like andMe collagen for women. This plant-based collagen drink consists of Ayurvedic herbs that cleanse your dirty pores from inside, hydrate your skin, and provide a natural glow.

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