While winter is a great respite from the grueling summer heat, our skin tends to feel dry, parched and tight. Some of us use moisturizers but to no avail. So here are a few tips to keep in mind.

What can we do to avoid skin issues during winter?

Inflamed skin? Visit the doctor: During extremely cold temperatures, especially when we turn on the heating indoors, the skin tends to get extremely dry and inflamed. If your favorite moisturizer is not working, Cetaphil soap and moisturizer is usually available at drugstores and can prove helpful. If dryness persists and skin turns red, make sure to visit your dermatologist for targeted solutions.

Turn on the humidifier: When we turn on indoor heating and head out to cold temperatures, it can create havoc on our skin’s balance. The best solution for indoor skin protection is to turn on a humidifier. They get more moisture in the air, which helps prevent your skin from drying out..

Stay hydrated: You may be surprised to find that water intake is just as important during winter as it is during summer. Drinking enough water every day will help the skin stay supple and decrease the dryness that cold weather causes.

Eat healthy: Fill up your fridge with monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, olive oil, flax and avocados. Avocados are the healthiest form of fat and great for your skin. Load up on vitamin C-rich produce like citrus fruit and dark leafy greens. They boost the body’s production of collagen which in turn maintains the skin and other connective tissues.

Dry itchy scalp: Cold weather often contributes to dry itchy scalp because many of us choose to shower with warm or hot water. Different hair oils nourish and replenish the scalp and moisturize hair. Before stepping into the shower, apply olive oil or coconut oil for a healthier scalp. Gentle massaging invigorates the scalp so make oil application mandatory during the winter days.

Choose rich moisturizers: One of the best ways to keep your entire body hydrated is to apply a rich moisturizer all over before stepping into the shower. Places such as Bath and Body Works and Body Shop have great body oils you can use pre- and post-shower..

Wear socks and gloves: Hands and feet often get neglected because we pay too much attention to only the face. To avoid their premature aging, apply a rich cream and wear gloves and socks to retain moisture.

What to buy?

Eucerin Soothing Skin Balm: This is really good for cracked and dry skin. The gentle formula protects the skin’s barrier in cold weather and is free from colorants, fragrances and preservatives. Available at Boots Pharmacy.

La Mer Moisturizing Soft Cream: Massage this popular cream in the palm of your hands before application. This helps in plumping up stressed and dry skin. Available at Paris Gallery.

Sisley All Day All Year: Great for dry interiors of a heated home or the cold weather outdoors. This anti-aging formula comes with a reliable eight-hour long UV shield. Available at Paris Gallery.

Clinique Superdefense SPF 20: Clinique’s moisturizer is very popular among those with extremely dry skin or that have normal skin which turns dry and chapped during winter. Invest in this for a whipped cream texture. Available at Paris Gallery, Debenhams, Sephora.

Clarins: Clarins separate day and night moisturizers suit many with sensitive skin. The fragrance is mild and the texture is not too thick. Available at Debenhams, Paris Gallery, Sephora.