November Is National Healthy Skin Month

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

Three cheers to the American Academy of Dermatology for designating November as “National Healthy Skin Month.” This makes a lot of sense since November brings the arrival of colder, drier air as the winter months approach. Their main goal is to raise awareness of healthy skin care throughout the year, as well as provide some specific tips for protecting your skin all winter long. 

Keeping your skin hydrated and protected isn’t just important to reducing the visible signs of aging, it’s also a preventive measure for avoiding long-term skin damage. Follow these five easy steps for a healthy skin year-round!

- Wear sunscreen. You know by now that I’m a big advocate of year-round sun screen. Cloudy and cold conditions do not block the rays of the sun, although the heat is less intense in winter. Remember to coat the skin on your hands (unless you’re wearing gloves) and your lips to avoid chapping.

- Use milder soaps and scrub lightly. Washing the skin removes natural oils. Try less drying bar soaps like Dove, Aveeno, Oil of Olay, or similar milder soaps.

- Moisturize. You don’t need expensive lotions or creams. After a shower or bath, while you’re still damp, rub your whole body with baby oil or a drugstore moisturizer of your choice (like Lubriderm or Vaseline Intensive Care). 

- Shower less often in winter. Skip a daily shower unless you have been very physically active on your job or you have just completed an intense workout. Most people can shower every other day and avoid drying out their skin. Rather than hot showers, which might feel refreshing but are very drying to your skin, stick with warm showers. 

- Choose a healthy diet. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are hydrating to your skin and other body organs. Eating heart healthy fats (even if you’re dieting) also support soft and supple skin. Include nuts, fatty fish (like salmon), avocados, and olive oil when you can.

Other tips you’d like to share?