Winter is one of the most magical times of the year, but it’s not a forgiving season for our skin.
The cold temperatures can take a toll on our bodies, making skin that was once glowing and moisturized suddenly dry, dull, and irritated. So, how can you overcome the harsh side of winter and enjoy hydrated skin even on the coldest days of the year? All it takes is some adjustment and extra care. Read on to find out how to keep your skin beautiful and hydrated during dry winter months.
Why Does Your Skin Get So Dry In The Winter?
What is it about winter and dry skin?
Cold weather is a factor, but it’s more to do with the level of humidity in the air. Winter brings on cooler, dryer temperatures with a reduced amount of humidity. This makes it easier for the moisture in our skin barrier to evaporate, which in turn leads to dry skin. It’ll be up to you to replace the moisture so you can maintain healthy, hydrated skin.
Tips For Preventing Dry Skin In The Winter
Stay On Top Of Your Moisturizing Routine
Moisturizing is essential any time of the year, but it’s especially vital in the winter. Make sure you’re moisturizing immediately after showering or washing your face.
Any cleanse, while beneficial for keeping your pores free from dirt and impurities, strips the skin of its natural moisture-locking oils. You can replace them instantly with a good moisturizer!
Adjust Your Skincare Routine Accordingly
You may want to try new products or add extra steps into your skincare routine if you’re suffering from dryness, but you’ll likely be better off keeping it simple.
Dry skin is more prone to irritation, which means highly concentrated products like serums and essence might not be the best choice.
Instead, focus on the quality of ingredients in your core product range. Your moisturizer will be key for curing dryness, so you’ll want to switch to a thicker, more nourishing formula or apply extra layers if your skin is suffering.
- Look for ultra hydrating formulas with emollients, natural substances that soothe and hydrate the skin barrier to make it softer and smoother. Some popular emollients include shea butter, cocoa butter, and jojoba oil.
- You may also want products with occlusives, or ingredients that provide a physical barrier for locking in moisture. These are typically heavier ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, and olive oil.
- Avoid products with excessive amounts of fragrance and/or alcohol, which may irritate dry skin.
Cleanse With Lukewarm Water
The water you use in your skincare routine matters.
As tempting as it may be to crank the heat up during the coldest months of the year, hot water actually dries out the skin by stripping it of natural oils. Try your best to wash your face and shower with lukewarm water instead.
Consider Overnight Treatments
Night is one of the best times to apply skincare treatments. Your body is working extra hard to repair itself, plus you’ll be giving your skin a lot of time to soak in all the goodness of your product.
Don’t Forget SPF
Even though the sun feels weaker against winter’s frigid temperatures, don’t be fooled. Harmful UV rays still have the potential to cause stress and damage to your skin barrier, which is the key to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 after moisturizing in the morning.
Hydrate & Nourish Skin Through Your Diet
Combatting dry winter skin often requires a holistic approach that goes beyond a great skincare routine.
Eat and drink your way to healthier skin by drinking plenty of water and choosing antioxidant and omega-3 acid rich foods, such as fish, nuts and seeds, tofu, avocado, berries, leafy green vegetables, and green tea.
Remember, it’s all about prevention and proper care. Taking the time to cater to your skin’s needs will ensure it thrives through the harshest types of weather.
