The weather in Westford, Tewksbury, Lowell, and Concord can be unpredictable. One thing all four towns have in common is extreme cold temperatures during the winter months. While this may make for beautiful snow-filled days with plenty of outdoor activities, it can also lead to skin problems if you don't take the proper precautions. Luckily, you can use many quick fixes to protect your skin from freezing temperatures to help ensure a pleasant winter season!
Why Do Extreme Cold Temperatures Damage the Skin?
- Loss of moisture. Extreme temperatures are one of the primary culprits in skin damage during winter months. Cold temperatures cause your body to lose moisture, leaving your skin dry, cracked, and itchy. In addition to uncomfortable itching sensations, the lack of hydration can cause more severe problems, such as extreme flaking that increases your chances for infection or even frostbite.
- Skin irritation. Extreme temperatures can also irritate the small blood vessels in your skin, giving you a red, flushed look. This is often called cold-weather flush and can make your skin feel hot despite the cool outside temperature. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures and persistent skin irritation response may lead to even more skin damage.
- Skin dryness. The lack of moisture can also lead to dry skin. Dry skin occurs without the right kind of hydration, either naturally or through moisturizers and lotions. When your skin is dry, it leads to more intense chapping and cracking, making you more susceptible to infection.
Quick Fixes to Protect Your Skin From Extreme Cold
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing is the simplest way to protect your skin from extreme cold. Be sure to cover up with a scarf, hat, and gloves when stepping out into the cold weather. Ensure you're wearing warm clothes that are not too tight-fitting, as tight clothes can chafe your skin leading to more severe problems later on.
Use a Moisturizer
Moisturizing your skin provides it with extra protection, especially against extreme temperatures. Apply a good quality moisturizer regularly and generously during the cold winter months. Choose one that contains emollients that help lock in moisture while protecting you against damage from ultraviolet rays.
Avoid Hot Showers
Hot showers offer a relaxing break from the cold air outside but avoid prolonged exposure to hot water. It can strip away your skin's natural protective oils. Stick with lukewarm water and focus just on cleansing. Avoid over-cleansing with soaps as these can contribute further to dryness, use only soap when washing your hands or body in this case!
Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers bring moisture back into the air, balancing out temperatures and making it easier for your skin to retain its natural oils. Additionally, a humidifier can help ease the dryness in your nose and throat, reducing coughing or irritated nasal passages.
Need More Help Staying Healthy During the Winter?
Winter can wreak havoc on our skin, but it's possible to protect yourself with a few easy tricks. Seniors living in Westford, Tewksbury, Lowell, and Concord need to take extra precautions against extreme cold temperatures as they are more likely to experience detrimental results from exposure. If you or your loved one needs assistance during the winter months, contact Senior Helpers of Westford today! Our professionals can help ensure your safety and health this winter season.