What to apply on the face in winters?

Applying coconut oil to the skin as well as hair has various benefits, even more so in winters. This is because coconut oil contains vitamin E and it acts as a moisturizer.

Method:

• Since the oil freezes when the temperature goes down, heat the coconut oil over a double boiler before applying (heat water in a pan, place the coconut oil over this heated water in such a way that no water or steam gets into the oil).
• Massage the oil on the skin in small, circular motions with your fingertips and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before washing.
• You can also apply and leave it overnight before washing it off with a mild face wash and room temperature water.

As the weather becomes cooler, we switch to warm water which strips the skin of its natural oils. It is this moisture that coconut oil helps restore.

Aloe vera gel moisturizes the skin, and soothes any irritation because of dryness. Application of aloe vera gel in winters ensures that the skin stays supple and hydrated.

Method:

• It is important to massage the gel properly for it to get absorbed. Take a teaspoon of the gel in one palm. With the fingertips of the other hand, gently apply the gel under your eyes, on your eyelids, on your laughing lines, on your upper lip and at the corners of your mouth. Now that you've covered these areas, rub your palms together and apply the gel over the rest of your face in swift, upward strokes with your fingertips. 
• Even though there are a variety of aloe vera gels available in the market, it's usually best to grow it in your balcony or garden and use freshly cut aloe vera.

To prevent the skin on your face from looking dull and dry, apply raw milk.

Full of antioxidants and lactic acid, milk replenishes the skin’s lost moisture and also acts against dark spots, making the skin look bright and glowing.

Raw milk also contains vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K.

Method:

• Take a spoonful of raw milk in a bowl or in the palm of your hand, and gently apply it over your face and neck with your fingertips or a cotton ball.
• Leave it on till it dries (about 5-7 minutes). Then wash it off with normal or lukewarm water.
• You can also mash a little papaya and add it to the milk, which can additionally help in warding off dryness.

Read more: Home remedies for dark or black spots

Carrots contain beta carotene. Adding carrots to milk/honey/oil can help in lightening the skin.

Method:

Just puree a carrot, mix it with your preferred pack and apply on the face for 15 minutes to get fresh, glowing skin.

Read more: Tips to lighten skin tone

Oily skin and acne-prone skin needs special care in the winters, too. Here's a pack you can try if you have this skin type.

Method:

• To make the face pack, add equal parts of honey, lemon juice and rosewater, preferably one tbsp each.
• Mix and apply evenly over the face and neck.
• This face pack can be applied two to three times a week for best results.

Honey has antioxidant and antibacterial properties which not only help in soothing the irritated skin but can also be beneficial for reducing acne. While lemon tightens the skin and acts as an astringent, rosewater helps in toning the skin.

While these skincare techniques can work wonders for your skin in winters, it is important to remember that for glowing skin, you must also eat healthily, exercise and keep consuming fluids in order to stay hydrated inside out. (Read more: Benefits of drinking water in the morning)

A healthy diet consisting of seasonal fruits and vegetables, particularly berries which are full of vitamins and antioxidants, is great for the skin.