The wedding season is here and it is legit the worst time of the year for my skin. My skin is flaky and dull and my lips are chapped. What do I do to prep my skin for the wedding shenanigans that will follow in the weeks to come so that my skin doesn’t look wrinkly and dry?

I always hear the same complaints this time every year, as the air becomes arid and showers becomes hotter all of this can rapidly dehydrate the skin, compromising our protective barrier resulting in a bunch of unpleasant feelings.

The skin becomes tight, dry, irritated, red, flaky and sore, fine lines become prominent also leaving the protective barrier weak thus allowing the pathogens to enter it with ease. On the other hand moisture from the skin escapes quickly leaving it dehydrated.

This time of year is fiddly for those who have dry eczematous skin all year round, which routinely produces less sebum, products like thick balms, oils and creamy cleansers may help such people. If your skin lacks hydration, you might seek help from water rich products like serums. Using air humidifier may also help to restore hydration.

If you are using a gel-based cleanser then its time you switch to a hydrating one. Hyaluronic acid and ceramide containing serums are ideal for such people. Limit your shower time to five to 10 minutes only and use lukewarm water. Hot water strips of your skins natural oils. Regular bar soaps may irritate your skin, better switch to a fragrance free moisturising cleanser or a glycerin containing soap. Use a moisturiser on damp skin immediately after shower.

Modify your facial cleansing routine for winters by minimising the use of toners and astringents, they contain alcohol which will further dry up your skin. Avoid over drying masks, exfoliators and peels as the skin barrier is already compromised due to harsh weather. Switch to milder skin care products.

Chapped lips are unsightly, use a balm or petroleum jelly at least twice a day and also at night. Same works wonders for cracked heels.

Line up your woolen clothes with a pure cotton fabric to prevent a flare up in your dry skin conditions. You may also wear a separate layer of breathable cloth underneath preventing direct contact with skin. Follow the above tips to maintain your dewy glow this winter. Happy holidays! •