Keep your skin radiant

Seasonal changes influence the skin. In winter, due to lack of humidity, a dry skin really suffers. The skin loses moisture to the atmosphere and becomes more dry.

A skin that is habitually dry gradually loses its ability to hold moisture. Sometimes, the skin begins to flake and becomes crepey. Very tiny lines become visible on the outer layer.

In some cases, there may be rough, red, flaky patches. A dry skin lacks both oil and moisture. They are vulnerable to early wrinkles and sensitive skin, with rough, reddish patches.

Daily and appropriate care is essential. Cleanse the face twice a day with a cleansing cream or gel, containing aloe vera, which helps to check moisture loss also rehydrates the skin.

Apply the cleanser, with a light massage and wipe it off with moist cotton wool. Tone the skin, with rose water or a rose-based skin tonic.

Protect the skin from moisture loss during the day. Apply a sunscreen, before going out in the sun. Most sunscreens have built-in moisturisers.

Moisturizers are available in cream and liquid form. For extreme dryness, use a cream. A liquid moisturizer should also be used under make-up. Keep the skin well moisturised.

Nourishment is imperative for dry skin, as it not only lubricates the skin, but helps it to hold moisture better. It also softens the skin.

After cleansing at night, apply nourishing cream on face and massage it with upward and outward movements, for 3 to 4 minutes. Wipe off excess cream with moist cotton wool before bedtime.

The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate. It acquires lines and wrinkles easily. Apply an under-eye cream wipe it off after 15 minutes, with moist cotton wool.

Or, daily apply pure almond oil sparingly and massage lightly, using only the ring finger, for one minute under each eye. Massage in one direction only.

The skin on the lips is also thin and lacks oil producing glands. It becomes dry and chaps easily. After cleansing, apply almond oil or almond cream on the lips daily and leave it on all night. Sun-protective lip balms are also useful.

For skin on the body, arms and legs, apply warm sesame seed oil before bath, massaging it into the skin. Use a mild glycerine soap.

Immediately after your bath, apply a body lotion while the skin is still damp. This helps to seal in moisture.