Winter is the most lethargic season in the calendar. We all want to cuddle up in our cosy blankets and enjoy warm beverages. But winter is also the season when our skin needs extra care. During winter we often fail to take baths or even follow skin care routines. As the cold wind blows, one can feel the change in our skin. Our skin appears to be dry and gradually loses its natural glow. As the weather becomes harsher with temperatures decreasing, your skin becomes itchy and red. You might notice chappy lips and cracked heals. Winter surely takes a toll on the health of your skin. So, it is crucial to give our skin the nourishment it requires in winter. And , yes, the routine is totally different than a summer skin care routine. Here are the five ways you can protect your skin from the harshness of winter:

# Drink plenty of water
Keeping yourself hydrated is as much important in winter than it was in the summer months. Drinking good amount of water not only ensures a healthy skin but also a healthy body by preventing dehydration. Water also helps to retain the natural moisture of our skin against the harsh winter winds. It ensures a the glow of the skin to be retained. Keeping yourself hydrated also leads to lesser appearance of wrinkles and also prevents the stretching of the skin.

# Bathe in lukewarm water
The idea of a water bath sounds really tempting during winter but itshould be avoided during winter. Hot water can leave your skin dry. You skin looses its natural oils and appears to be stretchy. It is better to take take bath in luke warm water , and even wash your face and hands in it.

# Moisturize regularly
Moisturizing ensures healthy skin. Moisturize after the bath is important as it helps to lock the dampness in theskin. Moisturizing ensures your skin to have a glow and nott appear to be dry. It is also crucial to use different moisturizer for different skin types. Dry skin conditions should use oil- based moisturizers, while people having oily skin should use water based moisturizers. Use vitamin e oil and aloe vera or shea butter moisturizers to hydrate and nourish your skin. Avoid using petroleum jelly as it causes more dryness.

# Exfoliation
If you have done it in the summers , it also crucial to remove dead skin cells and impurities from your skin in winters. Exfoliate with natural ingredients and include aloe vera gel in it. Exfoliation ofthe lips and elbows is a must. Use a creamy exfoliating scrub to avoid itchiness. Do this routine once a week for healthy and glowing skin.

# Using nightcream
Using nightcream helps to lock the moisture of your skin throughout the night. You skin looks rejuvenated and hydrated in the morning. It is important to use night creams which has less preservatives or parafinns. It might take a toll on your skin. These are the five ways you can protect your skin from the winter harshness. But also remember to wear protective clothes to avoid moisture loss from hands and feet. Eating nourshing foods such as amla and nuts helps your skin to be nourished with vitamin e which is an imporatant nutrient for an healthy skin. Follow this diligently and both you and your skin can enjoy winter.