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Seasonal weather changes during the winter months can significantly affect the skin, resulting in dryness, flaking, itching, and scaly patches. Itchy, dry skin can be very uncomfortable and also socially embarrassing. However, instead of spending money on expensive over-the-counter remedies and beauty procedures, home remedies for dry skin in winter come in handy and are by far more cost-effective.

It is necessary to take extra care of your skin during the winter season as the low humidity causes dehydration of skin and makes it dry and irritated. It will start to look dull and flaky, and in severe cases, fishnet like cracks may occur. However, there are home remedies for dry skin in winter that can help your skin look fresh. Some of the popular cost-effective home care methods for a dry face are as follows:

• Banana/Papaya/Avocado Paste: Dry skin can be treated by applying thick paste of one ripe banana, half a papaya, and one avocado. Apply this paste on the face, neck and other dry areas and leave it on for 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water. This is an effective home remedy for dry skin as it not only nourishes the skin but also lightens scars.
• Honey: One of the most effective home remedies for dry skin in winter is honey. It has soothing and moisturizing properties, and it can be used with various other ingredients to tone and hydrate the skin. Mix one tsp of honey with two tsps of milk powder and one tsp egg yolk. A honey and rose water mixture makes for an effective moisturizer.
• Almond oil: Almond oil is a natural home remedy that keeps the skin smooth and moisturized. Massage almond oil over the dry area.
• Lemon: Lemon is rich in vitamin C. Applying a lemon and avocado mixture on dry skin not only reduces dryness but also cleanses the skin, giving it a natural glow.
• Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera provides all the essential nutrients to the skin and makes it smooth and glowing.
• Homemade Mask: Mix two tsp of gram flour, two tsp of milk, and a pinch of turmeric, and apply all over the face and neck. Wash it off when it dries.

Apart from taking adequate care of your skin during winter using home remedies, it is also necessary to focus on what you eat. Here are some helpful tips:

• Keep the body well hydrated and drink plenty water and liquids
• Make sure to include milk, ghee, honey, and cane juice in the diet
• Keep away from junk foods
• Cold foods such as ice creams and milkshakes should be avoided during winter months
• Sweet, salty and citrus fruits can strengthen the body and keep the skin healthy

Moisturizing is an important part of any skin care regime, and winter demands extra care and nourishment. Apply thick, creamy moisturizers just after a bath or shower when the skin is still damp. Massaging the body with moisturizing oils also helps to keep the skin soft and hydrated through the day. Chapped lips can be prevented by applying lip balms, petroleum jelly, or butter on them.

• In order to avoid the flaky skin during winter, wear warm clothes made of silk, wool, etc.
• Keep baths short and avoid very hot showers.
• Use an indoor humidifier to get moisture in the air.
• Use less soap and do not rub your skin.
• Do not wash your face frequently.
• Perform 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise thrice a week.

1. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003250.htm
2. http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/003250.htm

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.