Winter Skincare Tips
In the colder months, the air dries up, and so does the skin. People enjoy snow-covered lawns and fun outdoor activities during this special time of year. Along with the joy of the winter season comes the reality that skin needs and deserves some extra attention for the next several months. If you are someone who has a natural glow and wants to maintain it or someone who hasn’t found their skin’s best glow yet, here are some tips on winter skincare from professional athletes that echo the expert advice of dermatologists on skincare.
Winter skin is dehydrated, and many people are often tricked by overcast weather into thinking sunscreen is unnecessary (big mistake!). The two things skin absolutely must have in the cold and dry winter months in hydration and sun protection.
Athletes Offer Good Advice on Winter Skincare
Some of the best advice, outside of that of a professional dermatologist, about taking care of skin during winter months is athletes. Although not surprising, athletes who value their skin’s health during the winter offer many of the same “skin habits” echoed by the best dermatologists.
Athletes who travel to other places, spend time in planes, and deal with changes in altitude have the most challenging time adjusting and keeping their skin clear during winter months.
The bottom line is that anyone who wants to maintain their skin’s health throughout the winter needs to stick to a routine that works while being open to necessary adjustments. Washing the face at the end of the day and following up with a moisturizer is essential. Include an SPF during the day, no matter how cloudy it looks. Sunscreen is vital to protecting the skin from the sun’s dangerous rays (yes, even in the winter, snow’s reflection can cause skin damage!).
Keeping Skin Healthy Through the Winter
Wash Your Winterwear
Since the cold air is drying, skin dries out at an exponential rate if you add wind to that equation. Most people experience chapped lips, and if your lips are chapped, all your skin needs moisture. If you wear scarves, hats, and gloves, wash them (for some of you, this may be your first time) to avoid breakouts and the spread of sweat and dirt.
Masks and Moisture
Although most people have a skincare routine that they continue into winter, staying on top of any changes that may need to be addressed by a seasonal switch in products is crucial. Using masks can also help give skin a nice break and bring impurities to the surface that can be wiped away. Please do not forget to moisturize after a mask – the skin is in a prime state to be spoiled, so get that moisture in there when it is most successful! The skin may require added moisture multiple times a day in harsh winter weather.
Humidifiers to Keep Skin Moist
Using a humidifier in the home and workplace can profoundly affect the skin’s moisture during winter months. Since the heater or fireplace are typically on, adding moisture to the air you breathe can be significantly helpful. Many people do not consider how affordable humidifiers are, and the value they bring is immense! Keep the filters clean and change them out each winter!
Serums and Oils
In the winter, when the air is dry, and skin seems to be crying out for moisture, serums may be a good product for those wanting to maintain a healthy glow regardless of the season. Be careful when trying new products, and always ask a skin care specialist if you have skin sensitivities. Serums can provide an extra layer to help with redness, additional moisture, and more. Always apply the serums after washing and toner and add moisture to seal everything in! Finish off with sunscreen for maximum protection.
Oils are another popular item that people incorporate into their skincare routines in the winter months. Everything from coconut to Emu oil is being used to boost skin moisture. Watch out for breakouts because oils can clog pores, and some essential oils have drying effects – that is the opposite of what you are working to achieve!
When the skin suffers terribly from the dry winter weather, some choose to use water and toner instead of a cleanser. Toner does not replace removing dirt and grime off the skin but may be an option short-term. Stick to warm showers and not steaming ones. Even after being outdoors in the freezing cold, avoid the temptation to overcompensate with hot water. Hot water is not ideal for the skin; after the good feeling comes excessive dryness and itching.
Facing dry skin throughout the year only makes the winter months more daunting. Winter conveniently aligns with holidays and increased traveling, and traveling does not do any favors for skin either. So, be intentional this winter about the best skin care that can save you into the New Year and provide a smooth transition into 2023!