Simple Dermatologist Tips to Prevent Dry, Cracked Skin in Fall

The dry, cracked skin that often accompanies autumn can be uncomfortable. Here are some dermatologist-recommended, easy tips to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.

 

 

Coconut Oil

During fall and winter, skin often becomes dry, cracked, and rough due to a lack of natural oils that keep it moisturized. In addition to using high-moisture creams, coconut oil is a natural product that works excellently as a moisturizer.

Contrary to the belief that coconut oil clogs pores, it actually prevents bacterial infections. You can buy ready-made coconut oil or prepare it yourself with fresh coconuts. Apply coconut oil before bedtime, especially on hands, feet, and heels, using more on these areas compared to the lips.

How to use coconut oil effectively:

• Apply directly to the skin.
• Mix 5ml of coconut oil with your body wash, massage all over your body, and rinse with warm water.
• Combine 1 teaspoon of honey with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil, mix well, and apply to your hands and feet. After showering, apply a thin layer of moisturizer to avoid clogging pores and creating rough skin.

 

Vitamin E

Before bedtime, cleanse your face thoroughly, then apply the contents of a vitamin E capsule evenly to your face and leave it on overnight. Rinse in the morning. Using this daily provides excellent skin nourishment. Vitamin E capsules are rich in antioxidants, which offer long-lasting moisture and effective skin care during dry seasons.

 

Salt

Salt not only has antibacterial properties but also softens the skin. For dry, cracked skin in autumn, soaking your body in warm water with dissolved salt can help you relax and soften your skin by exfoliating dead cells.

For facial care, wash your face with a warm saltwater solution to achieve softer, smoother skin during winter.

 

Additional Skin Care Tips

1. Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Drink about 2 liters of water daily, spread evenly throughout the day instead of consuming large amounts at once. Water sources can include plain water, vegetable broth, fruit juices, and fresh fruits. Avoid carbonated drinks.

2. Exfoliate Regularly
Environmental factors and physical activity cause increased dead skin cell buildup. In autumn, these dead cells appear as thick, dry patches, making skin rough and wrinkled. Exfoliation removes these layers, brightens the skin, and improves the absorption of skincare products. Exfoliate twice a week and follow up with gentle massage to improve results.

3. Use Natural Masks
Besides store-bought masks, you can create DIY masks using fresh fruits mixed with almond powder, honey, or olive oil. Steaming with herbal ingredients such as green tea leaves or chamomile tea improves blood circulation, unclogs pores, and rejuvenates the skin.

4. Maintain a Balanced Diet
A nutrient-rich diet, particularly with vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, B, C, E, and zinc, helps keep the skin soft and glowing. Fresh produce such as lemons, grapefruits, grapes, oranges, bean sprouts, and tomatoes are excellent sources of these nutrients.

Collagen is essential for skin structure, and its deficiency leads to roughness and signs of aging. You can apply collagen directly to targeted areas to keep your skin radiant and smooth during the dry season.

5. Avoid Hot Water
Using excessively hot water strips your skin of essential nutrients and moisture. Ensure the water temperature is warm enough to be comfortable without harming your skin.