Author: Dr. Tamara Hill-Bennett
Winter is here, and while we're busy enjoying the chilly weather and sipping hot cocoa, our skin is taking a beating. The dry air of winter can wreak havoc on our skin, leaving it flaky, cracked, and irritated. As we bundle up in scarves and hats to protect our faces, we often forget about one crucial area: our eyelids.
Our eyelids protect our eyes but can quickly become neglected during winter. The delicate skin on our eyelids is thinner than the rest of our face, making it more prone to dryness and irritation. And let's remember our eyelashes, which can also suffer from the harsh winter weather.
But don't worry, we've got you covered (literally).
Here are some tips for keeping your eyelids healthy and hydrated during winter.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
First things first, moisturizing is essential. Like the rest of our skin, our eyelids need moisture to stay healthy and hydrated. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer that is safe for use around the eyes. Apply a small amount to your fingertips and gently dab it onto your eyelids, avoiding direct contact with your eyes.
Protect with SPF
Yes, even in the winter, sunscreen is essential. The sun's harmful UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and cause damage to our skin, including our eyelids. Look for a moisturizer or makeup with at least SPF 30, and apply it to your eyelids.
Don't Forget About Your Eyelashes
Our lashes may seem harsh, but they also need some TLC during the winter. The dry air can cause them to become brittle and break off, so keeping them hydrated is essential. Using a lash serum or conditioning treatment can help keep your lashes healthy and strong.
Avoid Irritating Products
During the winter, our skin is already sensitive enough. Avoid harsh products, especially those with fragrances or alcohol, which can further irritate our delicate eyelid skin. Stick to gentle, hydrating products and avoid any unnecessary eye makeup.
Stay Hydrated
We know we should drink plenty of water all year round, but it's essential during the winter. Keeping our bodies hydrated will also help keep our skin, including our eyelids, healthy and moisturized.
Use a Humidifier
The dry air in our homes during the winter can also contribute to dry eyelids. Investing in a humidifier for your bedroom can help add moisture back into the air and prevent your skin from becoming too dry.
Take Care of Your Eyes
Lastly, remember your eyes themselves. The cold wind and dry air can cause irritation and redness, so protect them with sunglasses when you're outside. And if your eyes are feeling particularly dry, try using lubricating eye drops to soothe them.
So, this winter, remember your eyelids! With these tips, you can keep them healthy and hydrated all season. Remember, the key is moisture and protection – so moisturize, use SPF, and care for your eyes. Stay warm, and keep those eyelids happy! So next time you're bundled up in a scarf and hat, remember to show love to your eyelids. They'll thank you for it! So bundle up, moisturize, hydrate, and protect – your eyelids will thank you. Happy winter!