how to get winning skin this winter

Winter can really be harsh on your skin — it makes it dry, itchy, and irritated.  Enjoying winter and keeping your skin looking fresh and rejuvenated is possible, here are some tips to help. 

Keep the Heat Low in Your Home
When it's chilly outside we want to crank up the heat! But central heat can make the air in your house even drier. Try setting the thermostat at a cool, comfortable setting of 68°F to 72°F  to maintain healthy skin.

Pump Up the Moisture Around You and In You
The air is drier in winter and you need to keep your skin hydrated. Install a humidifier to manage the moisture level in your home. Drink the minimum 8 glasses of water a day to keep hydrated. These will certainly keep your skin happy!

Avoid Long, Hot Showers
Indulging in a long and hot shower may feel nice but a lukewarm/warm shower or bath is better for your skin. Avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands — if your skin turns red, it’s too hot. 

Exfoliate Twice a Week
Exfoliating twice a week can lead to smoother and brighter skin in the winter. If done too frequently it often can cause more harm than good. Make sure to find a product matched for your skin type and apply moisturizer immediately after. 

Modify Your Skin-Care Regimen for Winter
During winter, choose cream-based cleansers if you tend to have drier skin and try to avoid products that contain alcohol which can further dry your skin. At night time, use a richer moisturizer on your face.

​For your lips, apply a moisturizing balm that can help keep them from getting chapped.

Take Special Care of Your Hands and Feet
Apply a hand moisturizer before you go out. In addition to applying hand cream, wearing gloves on chilly days will protect your hands from the negative effects of cold, winter air. Our hands are the first to indicate dry skin. Gloves prevent cracked skin and brittle nails.

For your feet, dry conditions can lead to cracked, rough skin. If you want smooth feet all year long, apply a thick foot cream after showering and before bed. If your feet are extra dry wear socks over your foot cream to assist in absorption. 

Use Sunscreen
A common misconception is that sunscreen should only be applied on sunny days when you’re at the beach or by the pool. If you plan to be out and participate in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, sunscreen is a necessity. Sunlight exposes us to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the main cause of skin cancer. If sunlight bounces off a surface, it can increase UV exposure. 

Snow can reflect 80% of UV light which doubles harmful exposure and increases the risk of sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher and reapply to protect your skin. The glare from the sun and snow can harm the skin around your eyes and cause brown spots, fine lines, and other issues. So make sure you wear good quality UV protected sunglasses.