In the winter, it is equally important to stay hydrated as it is in the summer months, however, this is often disregarded. When the weather gets colder and the air becomes drier, our bodies can lose moisture without us realizing it. The cold temperatures can actually decrease our thirst sensation, causing many people to not drink enough water. Every time you sweat, urinate, or have a bowel movement, your body loses water. It can be difficult to notice sweating in cooler weather and water is constantly being lost through the skin, even if you’re not actively sweating. Let’s dig into some great tips to help keep you hydrated throughout the winter season. *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• Consuming warm liquids can help keep you hydrated, relieve stuffiness, boost blood flow, and create a sense of comfort, especially in chilly conditions where the body tends to lose heat faster. Checkout my Copycat Tazo Passion Tea recipe here.

• Sip on Soup. Soups are primarily composed of water, but they also provide important electrolytes like vitamins, minerals, and salt that play a crucial role in maintaining water levels in the body. Below is a pin to one of my favorite soups from Damn Delicious.

• Refrain from consuming excessive amounts of caffeine and alcohol as they act as diuretics, causing an increase in urine production and potential dehydration.

• Make sure to have a water bottle with you at all times to help you remember to stay hydrated. Everyone has different water needs, so if you find yourself thirsty often, with dark urine, or dry mouth and cracked lips, you should probably drink more water.
• This water bottle is a great choice to keep you accountable for your daily water intake.

• It is beneficial to take brief, cold showers as they can strengthen your body’s defenses against the common cold, provide relief from depressive symptoms, enhance blood flow, decrease inflammation, and avoid stripping your skin and hair of essential oils.¹

• Apply moisturizer right after showering. You should apply moisturizer immediately after a shower because your skin is still damp, allowing the moisturizer to trap the existing moisture on your skin, maximizing its hydrating effect and preventing excessive dryness caused by hot water from the shower; essentially, it helps “lock in” the moisture on your skin.²
• I recently began using this Korean moisturizer and absolutely love it.

• Try to utilize creams that contain:

• Urea is a common ingredient in skin care products that is often used to address common skin dryness issues or medical conditions related to dry or itchy skin. Additionally, urea is effective in removing dead skin cells and potentially combating fungal infections.³

• Ceramides play a crucial role in forming a protective shield against permeability. This barrier retains moisture in the skin, thus reducing the chances of dryness and irritation. Additionally, it has the potential to shield the epidermis from harm caused by the environment.⁴

• Hyaluronic acid plays a crucial role as a humectant, which is a key ingredient that aids in the skin’s ability to retain moisture. This powerful substance acts as a magnet for water molecules, effectively binding them to the skin’s surface and preventing dehydration. By attracting and locking in moisture, hyaluronic acid helps to maintain the skin’s natural hydration levels, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and supple.⁵

• Natural oils like mineral oil, vitamin E, or coconut oil help in hydrating and calming the skin, providing essential nutrients, minimizing inflammation, and containing antimicrobial elements that contribute to the well-being of your skin.

• Consider incorporating a humidifier into your living space to combat dry skin. By increasing the moisture in the air, humidifiers can enhance the skin’s capacity to retain hydration, leading to improved skin condition.

It is crucial to remain adequately hydrated during the colder winter months, just as it is essential to stay hydrated during the warmer summer months. Despite the chilly weather that may make it easier to overlook, ensuring proper hydration is vital for supporting your immune system, preserving healthy skin, and promoting overall well-being. By staying conscious of your hydration levels, you can help your body function at its optimal level throughout any season. Therefore, this winter, prioritize hydration and relish in the numerous advantages that accompany it!