WINTER SEASON & SKINCARE TIPS
Harsh winter weather can be SUPER damaging, uncomfortable and overall just painful on your skin. Believe me, as tempting as it might be, you definitely should fight that urge to impulse-buy loads of lotions and serums following that first gust of bitterly cold winter wind!
The following few tips are just helpful reminders of how we should care for our skin during these seasonal days.
Drink PLENTY of Water
When it’s cold outside we often forget to drink enough water throughout the day, but this is just when low humidity is most likely to strip our poor skin of its moisture. Remember to sip slowly through the day rather than gulp and to use a reusable bottle . Indulging in warming winter teas such as natural ginger and lemon is a wonderful way to keep hydrated in winter – you will feel healthy, hydrated and cozy at the same time. It’s a win-win situation!
Choose a Cleanser, but Choose Wisely
Many high end cleansers actually contain harsh chemicals which can be damaging rather than nourishing. Ingredients such as alcohol and any added fragrances won’t do any favors for dry, cracked skin, as they strip away natural oils. Cream-based cleansers and makeup cream cleansers definitely help keep the moisture in, while still taking off the day’s dirt and make-up.
Don’t Take Long, HOT Showers
It’s tempting to reach for that dial and turn up the heat and have a long, hot shower or a bath when it’s cold outside. However, hot showers and long baths are a big no-no. Not only will excessively hot water dehydrate you, but it will also strip away those necessary oils from your body. If you come out of the shower and your skin is irritatingly red and itchy, it’s a sign that you’ve overdone it.
Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate
It may be the last thing on your mind when you have dry, itchy skin, but there are benefits to exfoliating your skin during winter. Not only will it take off the dry, dead skin cells, but it also helps you regenerate new ones. Your skin will thank you for using natural, exfoliating scrubs that are easy to make using just ingredients from your own kitchen. If your skin is really, really dry, then you certainly don’t exfoliate. But if it’s OK, then you can.
Use a NATURAL Moisturizer, and Apply it Immediately After Cleansing
Choose your facial moisturizer and body lotion carefully. We recommend oil based products rather than water based to keep important hydrating oils in your skin. Apply moisturizer or lotion immediately after washing to lock in as much moisture as possible, and don’t forget to include your hands and your feet, the most hardworking parts of your body! If you run out of body lotion, look for a tub of coconut oil; we swear by this!
Protect Your Skin From Outside Elements
Winter is way harsher on your skin than summer. The combination of low humidity plus those strong, blistering winds can lead to uncomfortably dry skin, so remember to wrap up. A scarf and gloves are essential to protect your hands and the delicate skin on your neck. A lot of cold-weather clothing can be uncomfortable when worn in direct contact with your skin. We recommend using natural, breathable base layers to protect you from any rough or scratchy winter fabrics that are aggravating to your skin when worn alone.
Sunscreen. What? Yes. Sunscreen.
Sunscreen is just as important during winter to shield from those harmful UVs. Make sure to cover your face, neck and hands (if they are exposed), and opt for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection. Experts recommend reapplying your sunscreen every two hours and immediately after heavy sweating. Don’t forget the spots that are easily missed such as the back of the neck, lips, ears and under the chin!
Don’t Stay in Wet Clothing!
It’s raining, slowing, and sleeting outside. Wearing wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin and cause itchiness. If gloves, socks, and pants become wet, be sure to remove them as soon as possible.