Best winter skincare tips revealed by Celebrity Dermatologist, Dr Jaishree Sharad

Dr Jaishree Sharad is India’s leading celebrity cosmetic dermatologist, who has been practising for nineteen years. She is the only Indian on the board of directors of the International Society of Dermatologic and Aesthetic Surgery. The doctor is also the author of bestseller books like Skin Rules and Skin Talks which were launched by Amitabh Bachchan. Now, she exclusively shares a piece of her knowledge to PINKVILLA readers and gives skincare tips that you need to follow during the winters.

Skin is made up of many layers. The upper layer called Stratum. Corneum comprises of lipids, oils, lactic acid, urea, hyaluronic acid. These form the skin’s natural moisturising factors. Due to low humidity in winter, the lipid structure in the barrier layer of the skin tends to break up. Thus the water can't be retained in the skin. The stratum corneum does not get its water supply from within. Thus drinking water does not help in hydrating this layer of the skin. This makes the skin dry.

Skin becomes drier in cold weather, especially if it's windy, because the moisture of the skin is evaporated more quickly by the wind, and the skin doesn't produce as much oil.

Apart from dry skin, other common problems encountered in winter are chapped lips, dandruff, cracked heels, exacerbation of eczemas and certain skin disorders like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis etc. Thus it is essential to take care of your skin.

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 A few tips for boosting your winter skincare regimen, so that your skin stays moist and healthy through the winter months.

1. Avoid hot water showers. Keep your baths short. The thought of a long, hot bath on a cold winter day can be appealing but over-exposure to hot water can dry skin out even more. The intense heat of a hot shower or bath actually breaks down the lipid barriers in the skin, which can lead to a loss of moisture.

2. After the bath, apply a moisturising lotion on the entire body on slightly moist skin. Use a heavy moisturising cream (one with heavy lipids such as cocoa or shea butter) for your hands, elbows, knees and feet paying special attention to the exposed parts.

3. Sunscreen isn't just for summertime. Winter sun can still damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and sun-exposed parts of the skin. Reapply frequently if you stay outside for over 2 hours.

4. Use a lip balm or even ghee for your lips. Do not lick your lips as this will further dry your lips.

5. Avoid toners & astringents in winter as they are alcohol-based & will further dry the skin.

6. Avoid the air conditioners as well as room heaters for long hours. These will make the skin drier by ripping the moisture away.

7. If you are developing cracks, you need to take care of your feet daily instead of once in a while pedicures. At bedtime, soak your feet in warm water with a few drops of almond or coconut oil for a few minutes. Exfoliate the dead skin with a pumice stone. Apply a thick moisturising cream. If possible, wear cotton socks all the time.

8. Drink enough water to keep yourself well hydrated. Include flax seeds, almonds, walnuts, salmon, mackerels in your diet. These are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids & will help to keep the skin hydrated.

The skin mantra in winter: Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise…and keep your skin supple and smooth.