The cold weather is not kind to your skin. No matter if you have oily, dry, or combination skin, you can benefit from learning how to protect and care for your skin in the cold.
Gentle Cleansing
Cold, harsh winds and dry air are already destructive to the skin. When you need to wash your face to get rid of oils and bacteria, make sure you use a gentle cleanser. Harsh cleansers are aggressive and may further irritate the skin.
Remember to only wash your face once a day. Cleansing too frequently strips the skin of natural oils, which may cause your face to dry out.
Hydrating the Skin
Cold weather causes flaky, dry skin. If you already have dry skin, the winter is an additional struggle to combat. Always moisturize your face and body at least twice a day. If you need additional hydration for the face, try a hyaluronic acid serum to boost your natural glow.
Keep a hydrating ointment on hand just in case you encounter severe dry patches on the skin. Thick lotions aren’t ideal for those with oily skin, but when the cold weather is hurting your skin, it’s occasionally necessary to repair the affected area.
Sunscreen
You might think sunscreen is only essential during the summertime when the sun is at its peak. Sunscreen is a must during every season! Even if it’s only sunscreen with SPF 15, something is better than nothing to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
Stay Hydrated
Did you know that the amount of water you drink affects the appearance of your skin? If you’re dehydrated, your skin will show it; it will feel and appear dry. But when you’re drinking enough water for your body, your skin will feel smooth and hydrated!
Consider installing water filter attachments on your sinks to limit harmful contaminants. Drinking filtered water boosts your immune system while washing your face with clean water limits the risk of developing various skin conditions from contaminants like bacteria, calcium, and chlorine.
Avoid Hot Water
If you’ve ever experienced dry or itchy skin after a hot shower, it’s most likely because hot showers can dehydrate the skin. As the water’s temperature increases, the water and heat remove natural oils and moisture. It’s best to take shorter showers with lukewarm water during the winter to protect the skin. Always moisturize shortly after to trap in as much moisture as possible.
Keep a Humidifier Nearby
The cold is notorious for drying out the air. Your skin may feel dry, your lips may be cracked, and you might even experience a bloody nose occasionally. To bring back the moisture the winter weather took away, use a cool-mist humidifier to rejuvenate your skin and body. You can even sleep with the humidifier on to wake up refreshed and ready for the day!
The winter weather isn’t gentle on the skin. Remember to follow these important tips about how to protect and care for your skin in the cold so you can live each winter day comfortably.
