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Dear Carl:
Winter can sure make you feel flaky! Outside, strong winds and cold air dry up your skin by
weakening its ability to hold in moisture. Indoors, things aren't always much better--central
heating and low humidity can make your home feel as parched as a desert! But you can still save
your skin with a few simple do's and don'ts. For one thing, stick with quick showers and stay away
from long hot baths. You may think you're pampering yourself by lingering in the tub, but hot water
will strip your skin of its natural oils and leave you drier than ever after you towel off! Taking
a shower every other day is best for most people; besides, since you spend most of your time
bundled up in winter clothes you don't get very dirty to begin with. And, sorry to say, soap may
not be your skin's best friend this season because detergents in the soap have a drying effect.
Instead, stick with a detergent-free cleanser since it will be gentler on your skin. Finally,
slather on some body lotion that helps to fight dry skin. (Hot tip: apply the lotion when your skin
is still damp from a shower so that it'll soak in more thoroughly.)
Now that you've moisturized your skin, why not moisturize the air around you at home? Just put
a pan of water near a heating duct, or leave an inch of water in the bathtub day and night. The
water that evaporates into the air will help keep you soft and supple, too!
Sure, these skincare solutions may sound a bit silly, especially when everyone tells you that
"beauty is only skin-deep" and "it's what's inside that counts." But even so, you should still take
care of what's outside. After all, your skin is the first line of defense against dirt, germs, and
other icky stuff that could harm your precious insides!
Signed,
Wendell
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