Maintain a good humidity level in the house: bring a humidifier if necessary. Health Canada recommends a humidity level of about 50% during the summer, and 30% during the winter1. The humidity level can be measured using a hygrometer;
To drink enough. It is usually recommended to drink about 8 glasses (2 liters) of water and various drinks (juice, broths, tea, coffee, etc.) each day. This recommendation is not based on precise scientific data but serves as a scale. Indeed, this amount varies from one individual to another, depending on the activities and diet. For example, people who eat a lot of fruits and vegetables meet some of their water needs. According to most experts, this amount of fluid provides the body with the hydration it needs for all of its functions, including skin maintenance;
Avoid consuming large amounts of foods and beverages containing caffeine. Too much caffeine increases the elimination of fluid through the urine (diuretic effect). According to a summary of studies, we can still drink up to 4 cups coffee per day Without effect diuretic8. On the other hand, beyond this quantity, the diuretic effect appears. Obviously, we must also take into account the other sources of caffeine consumed during the day: chocolate, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks and coffee ice cream, which contain it in smaller quantities;
Wear some gloves outdoors in cold weather;
Protect yourself from sunfor example, by covering your skin with light clothing or applying sunscreen. Read our article Protecting yourself from the sun: 20 questions and answers;
For housework, use know little drying (cream, or cleaning oils) or wear rubber gloves;
To maintain healthy skin, we generally recommend getting enough sleep, not smoking and managing stress well.
Moisturizers and perfumes
If necessary, regularly and generously apply a moisturizer all over the body (ideally, immediately after a shower or bath, to retain moisture). Apply a moisturizer to the hands several times a day; ideally, do this immediately after washing your hands.
Baths and showers
In case of dry skin, avoid baths and showers with very hot water. Prefer lukewarm water and even a little cool. In periods of extreme cold, space the baths or showers. Limit the duration of the baths to a maximum of fifteen minutes. Adding an oil to the bath water helps to dry out the skin less;
Do not unnecessarily soap the legs and arms. After washing, wipe dry tapotant rather than rubbing.
Soaps
Many soaps destroy the natural film of oil and water that covers the skin. Most soaps antibacterial and products perfumed also tend to dry out the skin due to the alcohol they contain. Favor those that contain moisturizing substances, such as glycerin or shea butter.
