When is National Winter Skin Relief Day?

Sunday January 8th

As winter approaches, National Winter Skin Relief Day on January 8 reminds us of all the ways we can protect our skin from being exposed to the harshest of elements. The amount of moisture in the air is reduced by lower temperatures outside and higher thermostats inside, which can lead to the decrease of humidity in the air. Our skin is the first to notice.

NATIONAL WINTER SKIN RELIEF DAY – January 8

The Mount Sinai Hospital's Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research, Joshua Zeichner, makes a few suggestions to help us keep our skin hydrated through the winter.

Winter skincare tips

If the weather comes, try to take those long, hot showers. The heat strips the skin of its natural oils (called ceramides) and causes inflammation. The skin cells will swell, and when they dry, they will become loose like poorly grouted tiles and crack.

Instead, take shorter, lukewarm showers and use gentle cleaners. Surfactants and claims of pH balance can be drying on the skin. Harsh soaps with surfactants and claims of pH balance can be harsh on the skin. And don't scrub!! Be patient and let the water and lather do the job.