As the winter sets in, there is a drop in humidity which dries up our skin. Even if you have taken precautions during the summer months, exposure to cold weather has an effect on your skin. Colder days can cause dryness and itchiness on areas of dry skin like ankles, elbows, knees, etc. Not only are these areas more prone to itchy rashes but also crack easily. Some people might complain of cracking at corners of their mouth or nose too.
Other main reasons for dry skin are low water intake, less exposure to sunlight (which helps regulate oil production in the body), harsh soaps/detergents leading to loss of protective oils in the top layer of your epidermis, and laundry powders and soaps with too many chemicals. So how to avoid dry skin this winter?
Stay hydrated
Throughout the day, take small sips of water or any other drink you like; it doesn't have to be water! Just make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of liquids in a day. If you're not really fond of drinking plain water, try herbal teas (rich in antioxidants), coconut water, etc.
My favorite herbal tea is Our Healing Tea by Our Botanicals. Not only does it keep your body hydrated and increase your vitamin intake, but it also promotes detoxification and helps to balance energy, digestion, and overall mood. You can buy it from their website or Amazon.
Use a nourishing oil
This is a must! You should moisturize your skin every day, especially if you're living in a cold and dry climate. If you have dry skin, look for a lightweight oil moisturizer that soothes skin irritations and leaves your skin soft and radiant.
My current favorite is the Jasmine and Rose Nourishing Oil by Amaki, which I've been using for over a year now. It's very reasonably priced and it's definitely worth the investment! It helps balance oily complexions, improves elasticity for a youthful complexion, and absorbs into and softens your skin without any greasy feeling. It leaves it looking brighter and younger.
Don't forget your toner
Toners help to restore the pH balance of your skin and remove any traces of dirt, makeup, or oil. Make sure to use a toner that is hydrating and doesn't contain any alcohol. I like to use the Rose Water Hydrating Mist Toner by Amaki. It is made 100% of pure rosewater, smells heavenly, and helps soothe your skin instantly. It's perfect for all skin types and can be used before or after your moisturizer. 
Take a break from hot showers
Hot showers feel amazing during the winter, but they can really dry out your skin. If you can, try to take shorter showers and use warm (not hot) water instead. You can also apply body moisturizer while you're still in the shower to help lock in the hydration. I strongly recommend you try BodyRx Moisturizer Spray by Oncoderm Labs. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture for optimal 12-hour skin hydration. It comes in jumbo value size and is easy to use!
Stay away from harsh soaps
This is to avoid the loss of the protective oils in your skin. If you're using a facial wash, make sure it's as mild as possible and doesn't contain any strong chemicals. I personally use homemade soap bars to clean my body and they work wonders!
My friend gifted me the Bulk Botanical Flower Kit from bMaker for my birthday. I used it to create all-natural, handmade soap bars with fresh flowers and I have been hooked on them. They don't dry out my skin as other gels do; they wash off all dirt and grime without stripping my skin's essential oils. I have one in my shower and I use it for my face too. My personal favorite is Pink Rose, which smells like fresh roses (and the petals turn the soap pink!)
Apply a moisturizer to your feet
It's easy to forget your feet during the winter, but they are probably the most prone to dryness. If you have cracked heels, try using Hand/FootRx Moisturizing Cream by Oncoderm Labs once a day to relieve your feet of any pain and moisturize them. I like applying this moisturizer on my feet before bedtime to help lock in hydration all night long! Another tip: put on thick warm socks after applying this cream; it helps seal in the moisture.
Eat a healthy diet
This is probably the most important tip to help you beat dry and flaky winter skin. Make sure to get plenty of fruits and veggies in your diet, especially during the winter when it's harder to maintain a diet with fresh produce. I eat at least one fresh fruit every day (I particularly love oranges), green smoothies for breakfast, and healthy snacks like crackers or cheese between meals. Avoid drinking sodas and sweetened beverages; they can dehydrate your body even further! Also, remember that caffeine can be dehydrating too so try to limit how much coffee/tea you're drinking during the day.
Don't skip your supplement
You should also take supplements if you want to improve your overall health status in the shortest amount of time possible! Vitamin D is especially important during the winter because it helps your body absorb calcium which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. I like to take a supplement called Omega-D3 With Astaxanthin by Newport Natural Health. It's so potent that I only need to take one capsule a day. It keeps my body healthy and strong, helps me maintain good oral hygiene, and even supports my immune system!
Now you're ready to face the winter with gorgeous skin! Remember: just because it's cold outside doesn't mean your skincare routine has to suffer as well. Take care of your body this winter by following these simple steps and don't forget to moisturize every night for a radiant complexion!
