We often think of moisturizing after a sun-drenched day in summer, but winter presents its own challenges to our skin, our body’s largest organ. While we most certainly are getting less UV damage during winter, indoor heated spaces slowly dry out the epidermis or outermost layers of skin. These cells are constantly replacing themselves, but even more so when the humidity levels drop.

If you are washing with commercially produced soaps drying can be even more of a problem. What makes many of these soaps super foamy, sodium lauryl sulfate, is very harsh on the skin and can irritate those who already have problems with psoriasis or dermatitis. Some of the older soap formulas contain lye (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) and can be so harsh as to burn the skin. Lots of bubbles does not necessarily mean cleaner skin and using more gentle soaps can do wonders for helping your skin survive cold winters.

Once you have exfoliated the dead skin cells in the bath or shower and dry yourself off (but before the skin dries), by all means use a good quality moisturizer. Shea Butter is high in vitamin A and E and contains compounds such as lupeol cinnamate and cinnamic acid which have demonstrated in studies to not only reduce inflammation but to prevent tumors. There are many different grades of shea butter, so quality is the key. The pure form is very pasty and tacky and works best massaged directly into calluses and hard skin. Whipped versions are best for all over applications. Other body lotions will work too, just be sure to find quality brands located in the natural food section of stores and avoid ones that contain propylene glycol, polypropylene or alcohol.

Supplements are a good idea in general considering our stress-filled lives and poor quality diets. Skin benefits most from vitamin A, E and D. A good quality multi-vitamin with beta carotene, calcium and magnesium should cover all the basics. You might consider an additional dose of vitamin D3 in winter. And of course, the greatest and most basic supplement of all is something most of us need more of: water. Re-hydrating from the inside is very beneficial on many counts.

I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend massage as a valuable treatment for skin. Massage increases the rate of skin regeneration as well as increases blood flow and circulation. Similar effects can be achieved in the shower or bath with a good scrubbing….I like the exfoliation gloves so that I can get between the toes, but brushes work too.

Rod Cain, LMT owns and operates Rod Cain Massage Therapy in Burlington, Vermont.