Winter can be harsh on your skin, especially if you live in a cold and dry climate. The low humidity, strong winds, and indoor heating can strip your skin of its natural moisture and cause dryness, dullness, irritation, and even flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. To prevent these problems and maintain a healthy and glowing complexion, you need to adjust your skin care routine according to the season. Here are some tips from top dermatologists on how to take care of your skin in winter.
One of the most important steps in your winter skin care routine is cleansing. However, not all cleansers are suitable for this season. Some cleansers, especially those that are foaming or scrubbing, can be too harsh and drying for your skin. Instead, opt for a gentle and hydrating cleanser that can remove dirt and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and aloe vera that can moisturize and soothe your skin. You can also try oil cleansers or cream cleansers that can nourish and protect your skin barrier.
Apply a Thicker Moisturizer
After cleansing, you need to apply a moisturizer to lock in the hydration and prevent water loss from your skin. In winter, you may need to switch to a thicker and richer moisturizer than the one you use in summer. A thicker moisturizer can create a protective layer on your skin and shield it from the harsh elements. Look for moisturizers that contain occlusive ingredients like petrolatum, lanolin, shea butter, and beeswax that can seal in the moisture. You can also look for humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea that can attract and retain water in your skin. And don’t forget to moisturize your lips, hands, and body as well.
Apply Your Moisturizer on Damp Skin
The best time to apply your moisturizer is when your skin is still damp, right after cleansing or showering. This way, you can trap the water in your skin and boost its hydration. To do this, gently pat your skin dry with a towel and apply your moisturizer within a few minutes. You can also use a facial mist or a toner before applying your moisturizer to add some extra moisture to your skin. And if you feel that your skin is getting dry during the day, you can reapply your moisturizer or use a facial spray to refresh your skin.
Use Sunscreen Every Day
You may think that you don’t need sunscreen in winter, but that’s not true. The sun’s rays can still damage your skin, even on cloudy and snowy days. In fact, snow can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays, increasing your exposure and risk of sunburn. To protect your skin from the sun, you need to use sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather. Choose a sunscreen that has at least SPF 30 and offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously and evenly on all exposed areas of your skin, at least 15 minutes before going outside. And don’t forget to reapply it every two hours or more often if you sweat or get wet.
Drink Plenty of Water
Another way to keep your skin hydrated and healthy in winter is to drink plenty of water. Water is essential for your skin’s function and appearance, as it helps to flush out toxins, deliver nutrients, and maintain elasticity. Drinking water can also help to prevent dehydration, which can cause dryness, dullness, and wrinkles. The recommended amount of water intake varies depending on your age, weight, activity level, and health condition, but a general rule of thumb is to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. You can also drink other fluids like herbal teas, soups, and juices, but avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, and sugary drinks that can dehydrate you.
Check Your Skin Care Ingredients
Some of the ingredients that you use in your skin care products may not be suitable for winter. For example, some exfoliating ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and retinoids can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation and dryness. While these ingredients can help to improve your skin texture, tone, and clarity, they can also strip your skin of its natural oils and weaken its barrier. If you use these ingredients, you may want to reduce their frequency, concentration, or duration of use in winter. You can also use them at night and apply a moisturizer and sunscreen on top to minimize their side effects.
Use a Humidifier
One of the reasons why your skin gets dry in winter is because of the low humidity in the air. This can be worsened by the use of indoor heating, which can further dry out the air and your skin. To counteract this, you can use a humidifier in your home or office. A humidifier can add moisture to the air and keep the humidity at an optimal level of 40-60%. This can help to prevent your skin from drying out and cracking. You can also place some plants in your space, which can act as natural humidifiers and purifiers.
