Healthy Skin: Simple Steps to Protect Your Skin
A few small changes to your daily routine can make a real difference, writes Dr Michael Hanson in this partner content from Bulli Medical Practice
Winter and spring are wonderful in the Illawarra – but can also be tough on your skin! Cold air, indoor heating and lower humidity all strip away the skin's natural moisture. Hot showers, as tempting as they are on a cold morning, make this worse by removing protective oils and leaving skin feeling tight and dry. If you have eczema, psoriasis or sensitive skin you may also notice your condition flaring during the colder months.
Simple Habits That Help
A few small changes to your daily routine can make a real difference:
- Keep showers warm rather than hot and limit them to around 10 minutes
- Switch to a gentle soap-free cleanser
- Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser immediately after bathing while your skin is still slightly damp
- Use a lip balm for dry lips and wear gloves when gardening or working outdoors
- Stay well hydrated and eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and healthy fats to support your skin from the inside
Don't Skip the Sunscreen
The Australian sun is strong all year. UV radiation can damage your skin year-round so check the daily UV index and apply sunscreen whenever it reaches 3 or above. A broad-brimmed hat and protective clothing are also worth reaching for even on cold days outdoors.
When to See a GP
Most dry skin responds well to these simple measures. However, if you develop a persistent rash, painful cracks, signs of infection or a changing skin spot it is worth getting it checked early. Minor skin concerns can become more serious if left untreated so don't hesitate to come in.
Book an appointment at Bulli Medical Practice online or call us on 4284 4622.
About the writer
Dr Michael Hanson has considerable experience in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer. He’s worked alongside clinicians from the Melanoma Institute of Australia. He completed his medical education at the University of Queensland, and his special interests include dermatology, paediatrics and men’s health. Before coming to Australia in 2002, Michael completed a Master of Science (Chemistry) at the State University of New York. As a research chemist, he worked on drug development and the synthetic production of Heparin. Michael now works at Bulli Medical Practice. He lives with his wife and three children in the northern Illawarra and enjoys bush walking and travelling.
