Winter Skin Care Tips

Winter can be a beautiful time of year, but that change in weather can wreak havoc on your skin if you don’t take care of it. Drier air, cold wind, and exposure to significant temperature changes can lead to sensitivity and irritation, especially in our most visible areas, like the face. That said, transitioning to a winter skin care regimen is both easy and very effective. Following are some tips to keep your skin hydrated and looking its best no matter how cold or dry it may be outside. This is especially useful for those that suffer from dry skin anyway and may find winter to be not only aesthetically unpleasing, but downright uncomfortable.

Change your showering habits. While the cold mornings may give you reason to turn up the heat, avoid the temptation. Very hot showers can remove the natural moisture barrier of the skin. It will feel good while you’re in it, but decidedly worse once you start your day. Instead, opt for a warm shower and limit it to just a couple of minutes. Then, don’t dry yourself off completely, rather leave your skin moist and apply your skin care products. By the way, when drying yourself, don’t rub your body with the towel. Dab yourself to reduce damage to the skin.

Change your skin care regime. While you may forgo a skin hydrator in humidity, you may need a skin hydrator in the cold weather. You may be concerned about breakouts with a heavier cream-based hydrators but do your research and you will find plenty that do not clog your pores. This is where investing in a high-quality cream really pays off. You can even speak to Dr. S about the skin care products we carry in office

Exfoliate. Exfoliation is great all year long but can be especially helpful in the winter months to show off fresh, glowing skin. Exfoliating dead skin can also make your moisturizing regimen more effective. However, there is a tendency to over exfoliate with very harsh scrubs. Avoid this temptation and use very gentle exfoliant about once a week for optimal skin health

Use a humidifier. With the heat running in the house and the dry, cold air outside, winter is a recipe for extremely dry skin as you sleep. You can consider using a humidifier in your room. If you don’t have a humidifier, leave a large bowl of water in the room which will evaporate through the night

Don’t forget your sunscreen. Even though it is cold outside, the sun’s rays are still damaging to the skin. Combining a high-quality hydrating cream with a light sunscreen can prevent some of the damaging rays of the sun from reaching your skin, while also keeping the glow to your face.

The Bottom Line

The best way to maintain ideal skin throughout the winter is by focusing on a balanced skin care regime. Use high quality products, apply frequently and avoid activities and habits that dry out your skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water, because when your body is dehydrated so is your skin. Doing so throughout the winter will give you the skin you want and keep it healthier for the long term. To learn more about your skin care routine and to talk to Dr. Szymanski about products that we carry in our office to improve your skin care, please contact us.