Humidity and Your Skin

Do you have a hygrometer in your home to measure humidity?  You can get an easy digital one that reports temperature and humidity.  More expensive versions report the pressure and predict weather patterns.  More importantly, why do you want one and how does it relate to skin care?

I know that the weather turns cold and dry in various parts of the world because my phone starts ringing and my inbox becomes flooded.  People confide to me that each winter, their skin dries out.  No amount of lotion seems to do the trick.  What can they do?

Here are some fantastic, all natural tips to help you deal with the current weather situation facing most people in the United States right now.

1. Problem: Low humidity in the home.  Our home recently registered 20% humidity.  Although the hygrometer runs regularly, I didn’t pay attention until my cuticles started taking a beating.  Solution: Install a humidifier, at minimum use a room humidifier for the nights.  Recommended humidity in the home should be around 40-60%.  This level of humidity allows the skin to hydrate and does not dry out those precious mucous membranes that protect you from viruses.  It also also not so high that it promotes fungal or bacterial growth.  If you only experience periodic dips in humidity in your home, consider trying these cost-effective options:

• Strategically place  water near your heater vents (assuming you don’t have a dog: I never had luck with this method when my golden retriever was alive.)
• Keep a battery of house plants.
• Leave an inch of water in the bathtub.

2. Problem: Dry skin after showering.  Solution: Examine your soap as well as your shampoo.   Always use an all-natural soap that has not been purged of glycerin, as most commercial products have been.  Not only is this good for the environment, but it’s a great step for your skin!  It is extremely difficult to find an all-natural shampoo that works for all hair types and lengths.  If you have not yet delved into the “No ‘poo” world (nor ever intend to do so), at minimum re-examine your shampoo.  Make certain it is not the drying agent in your skin care.  For extreme skin sensitivities, wash your hair in the sink and avoid skin contact with the shampoo.

3. Problem: Biting dry wind. Outdoors activities, including commutes expose our skin to dessicating winds. Solution: Cover up, not only with clothing but with all natural protective lotions.  The absolute cheapest option is to “oil up” with olive oil, but olive oil is best when used on the body and not the face.  Choose a heavier-than-normal lotion for exposed areas, such as face and hands, and keep the lip balms handy.  We recommend Re-Cycle Mint Lip Balm for such occasions. Check back soon for the commercial introduction of our lotions.  In the meantime, some few lucky individuals are testing them here in Central Ohio.  At 20% humidity, I hope they feel protected!

4. Problem: Dry skin, dry lips. Solution: Drink more hydrating liquids.  Primarily, this means water.  Sorry coffee lovers, but until your skin becomes balanced and hydrated, now is the time to avoid all diuretics. Skip the coffee, skip the soda.  It’s time to drink herbal tea and water.