Changing weather conditions can be tricky to navigate when it comes to how you take care of your skin. Cold temperatures and dry air leave most skin feeling tight, parched, and uncomfortable. Not to mention dealing with the occasional redness or irritation.
Dermatologists agree that a good skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy skin in the wintertime. Here’s what experts have to say about navigating the colder months with your skin in mind.
Avoid Alcohol Based Makeup and Skincare Products
It is highly advisable to avoid using products with alcohol in them, as they dehydrate the skin and strip it of its natural oils. This can lead to dryness, dullness, and sensitivity.
Instead, opt for natural, organic skincare products that provide enough hydration to keep the skin healthy and glowing. Ingredients like honey, aloe vera, and almond oil are great for delivering moisture to the skin while also fighting off common winter skin problems like dryness, sensitivity, and tanning.
Hydrate Your Skin From Within
Drinking water is one of the best ways to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Aim for drinking at least seven to eight glasses of water every day to ensure optimum skin health.
Adding a little warm water with lemon or honey can also help give the skin an added boost of hydration and nourishment. Additionally, incorporating winter superfoods like avocados, sweet potatoes, and spinach can help the body retain more moisture and keep skin looking healthy and radiant.
Don’t Get In the Hot Tub Everyday
Hot water baths can be tempting in the winter, but dermatologists recommend avoiding long, hot baths or showers. The reason for this is that hot water evaporates the skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable to irritation.
Instead, opt for lukewarm showers and keep them to less than five minutes. Applying nourishing body oil after each shower can also help lock in moisture and protect the skin against the harsh winter weather.
Be Mindful of Your Soap or Cleanser
When it comes to winter skincare, the type of soap or cleanser you use can make all the difference. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances, as these can irritate the skin and strip it of its natural oils.
Switch to gentle, non-drying soaps or a soap-free cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Additionally, it is best to avoid exfoliating the skin too often, as this can lead to irritation and dryness.
Moisturize – Day and Night
Regularly using lotion and moisturizer should be a part of the daily regimen. This helps keep the skin hydrated and locks in moisture while also providing some protection against cold temperatures.
Freshly moisturized skin has a healthy sheen that can help even out any existing blemishes too. While choosing a moisturizer, make sure you go for one that works for your skin, as there is a whole range of different products for dry and oily skin.
Don’t Ditch the Scrubbing Altogether
Exfoliating is essential to help get rid of all the dead skin cells. When the skin is smooth and exfoliated, it absorbs the moisture in a better and quicker way.
If you don’t exfoliate and scrub off the dead skin cells, then the cells will block and not let the moisture soak in. For winters, it’s advisable to do a mild exfoliation once or twice a week, depending on your skin type and sensitivity.
The key to healthy skin in the wintertime is having a good skincare routine that’s tailored to your needs. At THERAPYSKIN, we understand that everyone’s skin is unique and offer personalized skincare solutions to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. Reach out to us today to discover a skincare routine that’s perfect for you.