How to get silky soft skin despite the dry winter air

1. The first thing I am going to say is — drumroll, please — drink more water! Healthy skin starts from the inside. All of the things we love to do that keep us warm — turning up the heater, long hot showers, late night hot-tubbing and long luxurious bubble baths — they all strip moisture from our skin. It is important to replenish our bodies constantly.
   Tip: Try “eating” your water. Consume foods such as melons, cucumbers and celery that are packed with water. Your body retains it longer than drinking it alone.

2. Get a humidifier. The air is dry and stale, and a humidifier will help you not only look better, but feel better too. I absolutely love the warm-mist humidifier from Bed Bath & Beyond, but it is pricey. So, I just got a bedside mini humidifier from Target, and I love it! It is so quiet, and you can easily travel with it and move it around the house — even bring it to work!

3. If you don’t have soft water, buy a showerhead filter. You rarely drink hard water right out of the faucet, so why would you want to drench your entire body and largest organ (your skin) in it? I found mine at Home Depot. For about $10, your hair and skin will thank you.

4. Be mindful of the body wash that you use. Stay away from harsh chemicals and soap. Many formulas can irritate and strip natural oils from your skin, while overdrying. It's hard to get used to washes that don’t create a thick bubbly lather, but you don’t need foam to make you clean. My favorites are SheaMoisture and Kora Organics body washes.

5. Gently exfoliate. Two to three times a week, take some time for manual exfoliation of the skin. Steer clear of any harsh scrubs that can cause microtears and damage. You can spend a fortune, or you can also make your own. Take a rich oil — such as organic olive, jojoba, coconut or avocado — and mix 50 percent oil with 50 percent organic granulated brown or white sugar in a mason jar. Gently rub over your entire body (excluding your face) while in the shower.
   Tip: After massaging into skin, leave on for the rest of your shower before rinsing off for the benefits of even more moisture.

6. Use a toner on your body. This might sound insane — but try it. And, no, I am not referring to astringents (aka alcohol). I am suggesting a pH-balancing hydrating mist toner. Look for a moisturizing formula in a spray bottle, such as Fresh Rose Floral Toner.
   Tip: Dry off completely, and then spray a generous amount of toner all over your body. Dry off again and apply body lotion. The toner will help reset the pH of your skin and helps eliminate dryness, itching and irritation. Do this after every single shower.

7. Invest in a good, natural, organic body lotion. You can find a million different types of lotion, but I love Kora Organics — pricey, but good for your body and mind. Apply lotion all over your body daily and make sure you have a separate moisturizer for your face.

So, there you have it: my tips and tricks for keeping your skin glowing and soft year-round! Try it out for yourself and let us know your favorites. And keep the beautiful photos of your beauty creations coming. Make sure to tag us and always hashtag #makeupmagnets.