Caring for your Skin during the Chilly Winter Months

Winter skincare is not always easy! The chilly (frankly freezing!) air, low humidity, and indoor heating systems can collectively contribute to dryness, flakiness, and irritation. Here is a guide to help you maintain radiant and healthy skin during the winter:

1. Gentle Cleansing starts your winter skincare routine

Choose a hydrating cleanser to cleanse your skin without stripping away essential oils. Consider cream-based or oil-based cleansers that provide effective cleansing while maintaining your skin’s natural moisture barrier. (I love ZO’s hydrating cleanser for this link and photo).

2. Hydration is Key

With the freezing weather we tend to decrease the water we drink and reach for a cup of coffee or tea. However wonderful coffee is it does not hydrate us! To hydrate your skin from the inside drink an ample amount of water throughout the day. Additionally, use a high-quality, emollient moisturizer to lock in moisture and prevent water loss. Look for ingredients like high quality hyaluronic acid for intense hydration. (Check out the new Hydrinity Range of 99% filler quality HA for amazing skin hydration link and photo).

3. Surely, I do not need Sunscreen?

Sunscreen should really be called daylight screen (IMO!). Anytime the sun is out- even through clouds on dreary winter days – UV rays are present and can cause sun damage. The reason for this is that there are both UVA and UVB rays (more about this in another blog!). UVA ages us and they are present throughout those winter days and even penetrate car windows- so this in time contributes towards those fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin and irregular pigmentation. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, especially on exposed areas. Do not forget the neck and back of your hands!

4. Protective Clothing

Cold and windy weather can cause windburn, chapping and overtime contribute towards tiny broken capillaries on the face (yes, those ones!). Shield your face from the harsh winter elements by wearing protective clothing.

5. Exfoliate Mindfully

Regular exfoliation is essential but be mindful to do it with care during winter, reducing the frequency a little bit or opt for a gentle exfoliant. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover. This enhances the efficacy of your moisturizers and serums.

6. Eye and Lip Care

– The delicate skin around your eyes and lips is particularly vulnerable to winter dryness. Use specialized eye creams and hydrating lip balms to address these sensitive areas and prevent cracking or flakiness. Here is a fav or mine for around the eyes that also helps plump up that skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

7. Avoid Hot Showers

While hot showers can be comforting, they can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water instead.

8. Professional Consultation

Consider seeking advice from a skincare professional, especially if you have specific concerns or want to tailor your skincare routine to address individual needs.