Colder weather is on the way and nurturing your skin during the winter season is essential. Cold air lacks humidity, which can cause the moisture on your skin to evaporate quickly. This leads to dry dehydrated skin. The cold wind can also strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving a combination of issues to contend with. Here are some tips to help you maintain healthy skin during the winter months:
Hydrate your body.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration helps maintain the moisture balance in your skin. Long showers are tempting to warm up on a cold winter day but try to limit exposing skin to excessive hot water. Hot water can strip away natural oils and make skin feel dry and flaky. Switch to shorter, or lukewarm showers and baths, to prevent excessive drying. Dehydrated skin can be flaky and develop into rough patches, especially on areas like the elbows, knees, and hands. Look for a moisturizer or butter that contains rich ingredients, like shea or coconut, to soothe areas that need extra love. Body oil can also lock in moisture when used directly after a shower and applied when skin is damp.
Adopt a consistent skincare routine.
Lack of moisture and reduced daylight hours can leave your face looking dull and tired. Dry skin is less plump and can accentuate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Finding the right skincare routine for winter weather is key to maintaining a healthy appearance. Make sure to start with a gentle cleanser. Invest in a mild, hydrating wash that doesn’t strip away your skin’s natural oils and remember to exfoliate weekly. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows your moisturizer to penetrate better. However, be gentle and avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate your skin. Consider using chemical exfoliants like glycolic or lactic acid instead. Follow up with a rich, emollient face cream to lock in moisture and apply it immediately after cleansing or exfoliating to seal in the hydration. Ensure to also incorporate a nighttime routine to boost skin hydration by using an oil or serum before bed.
Protect your skin.
UV rays can penetrate and damage your skin even in the winter and can cause premature adding and skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, especially if you spend time outdoors. The delicate skin on your lips is particularly susceptible to dryness and chapping in the winter. Protect with hydrating balms and use hand cream to prevent skin from cracking and irritation.
Remember that consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Adjust your routine as needed to address any changes in your skin’s condition during the winter months, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you have persistent skin issues.