Healthy Skin Month - Benefits of Moisturizing

Winter is almost upon us and cold weather is lurking outside. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to our skin during Healthy Skin Month in November.

We use heaters, hot showers and electric blankets in an attempt to stay warm during the winter months, but these attempts can be harmful to our skin. The get warm quick options can lead to redness, itchy, cracked dry skin.

UIS Assistant Director of Recreational Sports Amanda Jillson has four ways to keep your skin beautiful. She recommends getting enough sleep, moisturizing, exfoliating and hydrating.

“Who would have thought that sleep contributes to the way our skin looks. Sleep generally allows the body to rejuvenate and repair,” said Jillson.

She also suggests drinking 8 to 10 – eight ounce glasses of water a day or juice to bring out the radiance from your skin.

A rough cold and flu season is leading to more hand washing, which can be tough on the skin. Jillson says that’s why it’s so important to use lotion to moisturize.

“Apply moisturizer to your body and face. This can be a lotion, body cream or oil. It’s best to apply moisturizer after a shower when your skin is still fresh,” said Jillson.

Jillson hopes people will use these tips to keep themselves healthy during the winter months. If you have questions e-mail her at ajill2@uis.edu.