Our skin is most vulnerable in the winter season. The cold air, wind, and harsh weather conditions are very harmful for our skin cells and transitioning to a colder climate can dry out the skin. This is why we need to be extra careful this time of year and give our skin some special TLC.
Here are some of the best ways you can protect and nourish your skin in the winter.
Don’t Ditch the SPF
Just because the heat waves are long gone, it doesn’t mean that you should skip the SPF. The harmful UV rays are still there! Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so make sure you protect your skin and apply sunscreen daily, as usual.
Avoid Hot Baths
Hot baths might be the best treat when it’s cold outside, but they’re not that great for your skin. Showering or bathing in hot water can dry out your skin and strip away the natural oils off of it.
Although it feels so good to get into a steamy shower after being out in the cold, avoiding this will help you protect your skin. Choose lukewarm water and once you get out of the shower pat your skin dry instead of rubbing with a towel.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
This might be the best thing you can do to protect your skin from the cold. Make sure you moisturize right after you get out of the shower to keep your skin soft and smooth.
Switch to a thicker formula and use a heavy moisturizer for extra nourishment. Instead of the regular body lotion, use creams, ointments and body oils. These products are usually very moisturizing and can help even the driest of skins.
Humidify Your Space
Heaters usually dry out the air, so in the wintertime your skin is exposed to dryness in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Having a humidifier around will surely be helpful and improve the air indoors. You should consider placing one in your office and home to add moisture to the air and protect your skin furthermore.
Don’t Forget to Drink Water
We’re not surviving the summer heat anymore, so we tend to forget to refresh our bodies with lots of water every day. Staying hydrated is extremely important for your skin and your overall health, no matter the season.
Make sure you drink enough water to hydrate your skin from within and keep it healthy and glowing.
Add Vitamins to Your Diet
Winter is the season when our bodies are exposed to colds and the flu, so taking vitamins is essential to our health and well being. Vitamins are also very helpful for the skin, so having a daily intake will definitely boost the health of your skin. Vitamins C, A, E and D will help you nourish your skin from within, slow down the aging process and prevent redness and irritation. So make sure you add vitamins to your diet to protect and improve your skin and overall health!
Mask On
Using a face mask at least once a week is a crucial step of every skin care routine. Make sure you don’t skip this and use a heavy, hydrating formula.
This will only take you a couple of minutes yet will help your skin get hydrated and ready for the cold weather!
Don’t Neglect Your Lips
The skin on your lips is thinner than the skin on your face and the rest of your body, and this is why it’s more sensitive in the winter months. Therefore, it needs some extra care and nourishment. Make sure you use a lip scrub every other day to get rid of dead skin cells, and use a moisturizing lip ointment right after.
Keep a lip balm nearby at all times to protect your lips from the cold and keep them soft and smooth. To avoid chapped, dry lips, use an overnight lip mask a few times a week.
Take Care of Your Hands
The skin on your hands is more exposed to water than the skin on your body. Although the constant washing may be a good hygiene treat, it’s actually harmful for the skin and can cause cracks, dryness and irritation. Make sure you wash your hands with lukewarm water and keep a rich, moisturizing hand cream nearby at all times.
Use it every time you wash your hands to prevent your skin from drying out.
Protect Your Skin From the Wind
Depending on your style and accessorizing taste, you might not be used to layering up and wearing scarves every day. However, you should consider adding this piece of clothing to your outfit for the sake of your skin. Wearing large scarves and gloves in the cold weather skin will cover your skin and protect it from the harsh winds. These might be the most practical accessories – they will make you look stylish and put together!