Keeping winter skin hydrated is an absolute must. With the changes in the weather, your skin is bound to bear the brunt. Keeping this in mind, your skin care regime should change. The first thing you need to do is take a closer look at your skin and the problems that are starting to show, and to evaluate what it needs to be done and what changes in your skin care routine will be required.
Most people will notice that their skin will change from being expose to the harsh, dry and windy weather. Indoors heaters will exacerbate it, making it feel dry and flaky. Oily skin types will experience a skin that become less oily, sensitive skin types may show more drier patches and irritation, and dry skin types will feel tighter, flaky, and overly dry.
Oily skin can benefit from a face wash, containing vitamin C, mild bio sulphur, and a light version of salicylic acid, and AHA. For dry skin, use a gentle face wash containing vitamin C, and E as well as Hyaluronic acid, and if possible use a hydrating mask once or twice a week. Sensitive skin types will benefit for products containing camomile oil, or the use of paraben free products.
The most common skin problems this time of the year include dry and flaky skin and cracked lips. In general, there are some tips that most people need to follow when combating winter skin.
Moisturize – Moisturizing is key in the winter months, as it has two functions. It repairs the affected and damaged fatty skin barrier that is lost in dry winter weather, and it attracts moisture and locks it in. Mix a moisturizer with your sunscreen, or apply it over over it. Remember to apply moisturizer to your whole body as well, every morning and at night before going to bed. Keep moisturizer near you during the day so you can continue to moisturize if need it.
Wear sunscreen – Summer is over, but the sun is still there. Use your sunscreen especially on the exposed areas of your body. Use a a broad-spectrum coverage for both UVA and UVB with an SPF of at least 25. Apply it on your face and on all exposed areas of your body. Sunscreen needs to be applied year-round, not just during the summer months. Please, don’t forget your lips. Use a lip balm with SPF, your lips need just as much protection as the rest of your skin. Keep that lip balm handy to apply and re-apply, and do it generously. Avoid licking your lips to wet them, this causes them to dry out even more.
Hands – Keep that good, hand moisturizer handy on your side counter and in your hand bag, and do not forget to use sunscreen in them as well. Our hands are exposed to the weather as much as our faces, and they take a beating with the added effect of over washing in our daily routines. Were globes when washing the dishes, and going outdoors. That is the best way to protect your hands.
Eat a healthy diet – What you put in your mouth influences how your skin looks, eating healthy helps maintain the skin youthful. Be sure to incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in your diet. Anti-oxidants, Omega 3, and Vitamin C taken on a regular basis will help you achieve healthy and glowing skin as well.
Drink sufficient water – At least eight glasses a day, as well as fresh juices of deep colored vegetables. This will help your skin remain fresh and healthy.
Relax – Stress is a huge contributor to skin problems like acne and wrinkles. Making time to relax during busy days can improve the condition of your skin.
Do not forget the added benefit of a professional skin care treatment. These include microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, which exfoliate the skin, improves tone and texture, and reduces pigmentation. The added benefit is that during the winter months these treatments can be performed without the worrying effect of strong sun exposure, hence decreasing the possibility of hyper-pigmentation, or what is commonly known as dark spots or dark skin patches.
Hope these simple tips help you can adjust your skin care routine during the cold months, and keep your skin looking healthy and young.
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