As winter sets in across India, many people with oily skin experience an unexpected problem - superficial dryness on the outermost layer of their skin. This creates a tight, uncomfortable feeling right after washing, and some areas might even develop tiny white flakes. Beauty expert Shahnaz Husain shares valuable insights on how to tackle this seasonal skin concern effectively.
Understanding Winter Skin Changes
The phenomenon of oily skin feeling dry during colder months occurs because skin absorbs moisture only as an emulsion of oil and water. It cannot absorb either component separately. This fundamental understanding forms the basis of effective winter skincare for combination and oily skin types.
Professional Moisturizing Techniques
According to Shahnaz Husain, during dry winter conditions, a light moisturizing lotion works best for oily skin. She recommends adding one or two drops of water before application to create lighter coverage. For daytime protection, she suggests using a sunscreen gel specifically formulated for oily skin.
The application method matters significantly. First, cleanse or wash your face thoroughly. Then apply moisturizer using your fingertips, working it smoothly and gently into the skin. Any excess product should be wiped off with tissues or moist cotton wool. Apply moisturizer immediately after washing or bathing while skin remains damp to effectively seal in moisture.
Natural Home Remedies
For those preferring natural solutions, Husain offers several effective recipes. One simple mixture combines 100 ml rose water with one teaspoon of pure glycerin, stored in an airtight bottle. This lotion moisturizes skin without adding oiliness.
Honey serves as a powerful natural humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. For oily skin, mix honey with egg white or lemon juice and apply daily, washing off after 15 minutes with plain water. Lemon juice and egg white provide cleansing effects that reduce oiliness, while honey softens and nourishes the skin simultaneously.
Aloe vera gel presents another excellent natural moisturizer that prevents moisture loss. It softens dead skin cells and facilitates their removal, resulting in smoother, brighter skin. Many Indian households have aloe vera plants, making this remedy easily accessible. The gel comes from the leaf pulp found in the inner portion of leaves, while aloe juice lies just beneath the outer skin.
When using fresh aloe vera, ensure proper hygiene by washing the plant thoroughly. Apply the gel or juice on your face and rinse with plain water after 15 minutes. Aloe vera provides powerful moisturization without clogging pores, making it ideal for oily skin types during winter months.
