As the weather cools down and dry conditions set in, it’s important to take extra care of your skin. Heater’s blast dry air, which can strip moisture from your skin. If you don’t keep your skin hydrated, you may start to experience dry skin conditions like tight and itchy skin. Also, if you’re planning on hitting the slopes this winter, the cold, dry air combined with the sun can wreak havoc on your skin. So how can you protect your skin during these dry months? By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated all winter long.
Switch to a Gentle Cleanser
Many people make the mistake of thinking they need a strong cleanser year round, but those harsh ingredients can strip away all of the natural oils that protect our skin. This can leave the skin dry, tight, and irritated. While an exfoliating cleanser can work great in the summertime to eliminate all the excess oils and sweat, it can be too much in cooler temperatures when the skin is already more susceptible to dryness. There are many gentle cleansers on the market, but one that is great for all skin types is the Gentle Foaming Cleanser. This cleanser will effectively cleanse your skin while soothing it, leaving it smooth and soft.
Add a Hydrating Serum to Your Routine
One way to combat winter skin woes is to add a hydrating serum to your skincare routine. A good hydrating serum will help to replenish lost moisture and restore your skin’s natural barrier function. Products that contain hyaluronic acid are known to be particularly effective at boosting hydration levels. One of the best face serums for dry skin is the Revision Hydrating Serum. Use this serum in the morning and night after cleansing, and you’ll notice a difference in your skin’s appearance and feel. Another option, if you have mature skin or struggle with extreme dryness, is the AGE Contour by ISDIN. This cream has advanced moisturizing properties that will hydrate the skin while also fighting against aging.
Stay Hydrated
In the winter months, it’s easy to become less diligent about our water intake. We do not feel as thirsty and can gravitate towards warmer drinks like coffee and tea. However, staying hydrated is essential for keeping your skin healthy and free from dryness. When your skin is dry, it’s more susceptible to a host of problems, like eczema; but it can also lead to premature aging, as lack of moisture makes fine lines and wrinkles more visible. Drinking plenty of water will help to keep your skin cells plump and hydrated.
Use a Humidifier
Another great way to counteract the effects of dry air in winter is to use a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air that will help to keep your skin hydrated and even help prevent problems like cracked lips or irritated eyes. By using a humidifier in your bedroom while sleeping or in your office, you will be better able to balance out the exposure to dry air you are getting. So if you dread the effects of cold weather on your skin every year, consider investing in a humidifier. Allie’s favorite humidifier in pink!
Keep a Good Lip Balm Handy
Dry chapped lips are bound to happen in winter no matter how hydrated we are. Finding a lip balm that hydrates your lips without having to reapply every hour can be challenging, but I have a solution for you. If you haven’t tried our cult favorite Youthful Lip Replenisher, I cannot recommend it enough. This formula gives immediate intense hydration to your lips while also making them look more youthful and fuller. It also has a cooling sensation when applying that everyone enjoys. Almost all of my patients that try it tell me it is the best lip product they have ever tried because of how long their lips stay plump and hydrated after applying. It is also great for targeting fine lines that occur in your lips as you age.
As the weather starts to cool down and we say goodbye to summer, it’s important to remember that our skin needs a little extra TLC. By following these simple tips, you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy all winter long. Do you have any other tips for preventing dry skin in the colder months? Share them with us in the comments!