Shifting to a Winter Skincare Routine

Depending on where you live, you may or may not spend your winter months in wool hats, puffy jackets, and scarves. The temperatures may vary, but the need to adjust and make changes to skincare routines remains the same for everyone. Using the same skincare routine rarely works for people, and changing it up may do your skin a world of good this winter. As you prepare to winterize your skincare routine, keep these tips and tricks in mind. Skin in the winter months requires hydration to stay looking fresh. Dull and dry skin can easily take over without a tried-and-true skincare routine.

Skincare Survival

Some fundamental shifts should occur in your skincare routine to minimize the effects of winter weather on skin, including:

• Switch to heavier moisture products – those who are sensitive to pore clogging should consult with a dermatologist on the best products to use that won’t irritate skin and cause acne, but provide extra moisture for the season.
• Add a Hyaluronic Acid product to help lock in moisture.
• Add a Ceramides product to strengthen the skin’s barrier and repair damaged skin cells.
• Use Shea Butter to soothe irritated skin and add a layer of protection.

Those with a history of skin reactions to foods, materials, and other environmental factors should seek the professional guidance of a licensed dermatologist before switching skincare products. Sunscreen must remain part of your skincare routine. Cleansers should be milder and offer a hydrating effect on skin. You can’t give your skin too much hydration in the winter, but at some point, excessive products have a diminishing return. If exfoliation is a necessary part of your skincare routine, think about doing the process with lighter hands. Skin is already shedding dead skin cells, so a mild exfoliant can still be used, but avoid using it on irritated skin.

Itchy, Scratchy Skin

Dry air will cause even the most diligent skincare routines to seem like they are not working as usual. Lower humidity can strip moisture from the skin, leaving it looking dull. Skin may become flaky, red, and patchy. Skin may require extra lotion and hydration products during this time of year. In windy areas, people typically have scarves up around their necks – this can leave skin agitated, and it is best not to wear these longer than necessary. Once you are in from the cold, remove items that may be wet or prevent your skin from breathing. Windburn is a real skin condition that, left untreated, can become inflamed, red, and rough. Once skin is exposed and vulnerable, other skin conditions can surface. Those who spend time outdoors during the winter months, like skiing or sledding, need to remember to continue to protect their skin with sunscreen. The sun’s rays reflect off snow and can cause skiers’ sunburn. Just because it is cold outside does not mean it is a good idea to skip the sunscreen!

Almost everyone experiences chapped lips and dry hands during the winter months. Skin on the hands can become so rough, it cracks and bleeds. If this occurs, cleanse hands, dry, and then apply a quality moisturizer. Keep a lip balm stick in your car or pocket so you can reapply multiple times during the day. The same goes for hand moisturizer. Applying a moisture product every time you wash your hands can prevent skin from becoming so dry that it cracks. Cracks left open are vulnerable to infection. If skin becomes agitated and is getting worse, please get in touch with a local dermatologist, and they can prescribe topical creams and ensure no other skin complications are involved.

Hydrate with a Humidifier

One of the best ways to combat the dryness of indoor heaters this winter is to add a humidifier to your office or home. Humidifiers add moisture back into the air, counteracting some of the drying effects of heaters that are running most of the time, especially in colder climates, like Atlanta in December and January. Most people underestimate how much a humidifier can do to help keep skin moist and hydrated. If you don’t have one, get one today!

Avoid Irritating Cover-Ups

Those who do to have any sensitivity to wools and harsh fabrics – consider yourselves lucky! Even those without strong reactions to harsh fragrances can find their skin irritated in conjunction with the dryness in the air and from constant running heaters in the car, workplace, and home. Although those flannel pajamas may look adorable, sleeping hot can lead to rashes and other skin reactions. If you experience any lasting skin conditions, reach out to Buckhead Dermatology for an appointment. You may be experiencing an allergy or need different products in your skincare routine. Dr. Sherrie Straughn is the best in Atlanta, and she welcomes new patients, rain, shine, or snow!