There's one thing you can do for your winter skin that will make the biggest difference to how well you fair in the cold, dry weather. It's not a fancy new product, it's not a spa treatment and it's not a new supplement either.

It's all to do with the temperature of your showers. Yes, turning the heat down a little is the kindest thing you can do for your skin this winter.

I say this as a true lover of a scalding shower. After a cold day outside (or inside for that matter), is there anything more joyful than reheating yourself under a stream of hot water? Not for me. But the reality is, it's not good for you. At least not for your skin. And lowering the temp just a little makes all the difference. Here's why.

Why you should turn down your shower temperature

The surface of your skin in not a smooth sheet. It's an expanse with holes and crevices. And these holes are filled with lipids, the natural oils and fat that occur in your dermis. This diagram shows how the lipids fill in the gaps. These keep you nourished, protecting the moisture in the deeper layers of your skin and sealing it all in.

But just like any other oil, it liquifies during heating. And when you add running water into the mix, it washes away. Super hot showers are literally washing all the protective oils out of your skin. This causes major dryness, leaving you scaly and itchy. It can also trigger eczema in those that are prone to it.

Of course, sometimes hot showers are unavoidable. Especially since they're great for muscle recovering and can help alleviate respiratory conditions. So, if you are indulging in a steamy rinse, remember to moisturise thoroughly when you're done. That goes for your whole body, not just your face. And make sure to use a good quality product rich in lipids, ceramides or other natural moisturising factors.

But generally, turn the temperature down just a little bit. Your skin will thank you.

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