Winter weather is brutal on your skin. The combination of cold temperatures, low humidity and indoor heaters combine to create a formula that depletes your skin of its natural lipid layer that is there to help keep it from drying out. This often results in cracked, itchy, irritated skin. Use these tips to revive your skin and keep it glowing and healthy this winter.
- Drink Water … While expert opinions differ on whether or not drinking water has a direct impact on skin moisture, there is no doubt that it hydrates our bodies internally and helps keep them functioning properly. When we become dehydrated our entire body is affected, including our skin.
- Avoid Hot Showers/ Baths … No doubt about it, a nice hot shower or bath is a welcome way to relax after being out in the cold. But hot water dries out your skin. Combine this with the other challenges your skin faces during the cold months and it just doesn’t get a break. This doesn’t mean you need to avoid showers altogether or take only cold showers. Just tone the water down to a more moderate temperature and consider shortening the duration of your showers or baths.
- Moisturize … You should use a professional moisturizer at least 2-3 times per day during the colder months. Look for a product that is oil based rather than water based, as oil based products will create a protective layer to better seal in moisture. Applying moisturizer right after showering (while skin is still damp) is a good way to lock in moisture absorbed during the shower.
- Exfoliate … Use an exfoliator/ scrub 2-3 times per week to help remove dried out skin. You should go with a gentle product during the winter, even if you normally use something a little more abrasive. Your skin is likely to be more sensitive during the winter and less able to handle harsh products.
- Use Sunscreen … True, it’s not summer, but please don’t skip sunscreen just because the temperatures have dropped. The sun still emits harmful UV Radiation. Use the same sunscreen during the winter as you do during the summer, provided it is labeled Broad Spectrum. Sunscreens that are Broad Spectrum protect against both UVA and UVB rays, both of which contribute to skin problems, including premature aging and skin cancer.
We could go on and on, but wanted to keep this simple and easy. If you follow these five tips, your skin will thank you this winter. Contact us if you have questions about this or any other skincare topic. We would love to help.