Winter weather is harsh on our skin. Cold and windy conditions can wreak havoc on skin, while low humidity dries it. Without proactive and immediate as-needed reactive care, winter skin can dry, crack, chap, and become red and itchy.
Thankfully, with a little extra wintertime TLC, you can counteract these effects and keep your skin looking youthful and smooth.
Here are 10 tips to consider to protect your skin and stay radiant all year long.
1 Cover Up.
When it’s very cold and windy, cover up with a hat and scarf before heading out into the elements, taking care to cover your lips, too.
2 Warm wash.
While hot showers and baths are tempting in winter, choose lukewarm whenever possible – especially when washing hands or face – to avoid stripping necessary oils from skin.
3 Cleanse.
If you normally use cleansers that contain glycolic or salicylic acid, switch to a more hydrating version that contains moisturizing ingredients, then immediately apply a hydrating toner.
4 Moisturize.
In winter, your skin not only needs more moisture, but especially right after you wash. Apply moisturizer to damp skin, and for drier areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees, generously slather moisturizer on at night.
5 Sunblock.
In winter, snow can reflect up to 85 percent of UV rays from the sun. Be sure to apply some SPF 30 – zinc oxide or titanium oxide – before heading outside and wear gloves and scarves to further protect skin.
6 Humidify.
Heating elements dry out the air, so consider using a humidifier – especially in your bedroom – to replace moisture and help keep your skin from drying out.
7 Hydrate.
Drink plenty of water in winter to stay hydrated and eat foods high in water content, like watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots.
8 Exfoliate.
To help slough off dry skin, use exfoliating masks on your face and hands, as well as gently on your lips, followed immediately by moisturizer. Use exfoliating body washes for the rest of your body.
9 Avoid irritants.
If you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, take care to avoid allergens and irritants, including certain fabrics like wool, and chemical-laden detergents.
10 Use masks.
Homemade hydrating masks can help provide necessary moisture in winter months. Mix natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive oil, bananas, and aloe to create a mask.
While winter certainly has its host of challenges for maintaining a radiant, glowing complexion, it’s not impossible! By considering these ten simple tips for winter skin care, you can keep your youthful complexion all year long.
For more information on keeping your skin radiant and youthful this winter, give the experienced professionals at Youthful Reflections a call today.
