Winter has officially arrived, which means that freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and a lack of humidity have arrived as well. Especially in Bloomsburg, PA, it is impossible to avoid the severity of the winter weather. Unfortunately, some of the effects of winter are most noticeable on our skin – and not in a positive way. Flaking, dryness, and irritation are just a few of the annoying side effects of winter. Therefore, with the changing weather, it is essential to change your skincare routine with it. Here are some tips to help protect your skin and keep your complexion glowing this winter season.
Stay hydrated! First and foremost, it is important to recognize that skin largely consists of water; therefore, keeping hydrated is absolutely essential to preserving it this winter. A common misconception is that dehydration cannot happen during the freezing temperatures of winter. This is completely untrue. Especially in the winter, the most beneficial thing you can do to help your skin is to stay hydrated. Drinking at least the recommended eight cups of water a day is the most essential skincare tip to help your skin survive the winter.
Don’t wipe your face! One of the most important aspects of skincare has nothing to do with what products you’re putting on your face, but rather how you’re taking products off your face. As convenient as makeup remover wipes may be, the harsh “stripping” effect that they can have on your skin by removing its natural minerals with chemicals is horrible in these already undesirable weather conditions. Opt for an oil, gel, or foam-based cleanser to gently remove makeup and dirt from your face and leave it feeling refreshed and cleansed.
Never forget SPF! Another popular misconception in the beauty world is that sunscreen is only essential in the dog days of summer. This could not be farther from the truth. Sunscreen should be worn all year round in order to protect skin from dangerous UV rays. The benefits of wearing sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 daily are numerous and recommended by dermatologists, doctors, and beauticians everywhere.
Use lip balm… maybe. This can be a tricky tip. If you aren’t already using lip balm to protect against chapped lips, it’s probably in your best interest to not start now. Unfortunately, your lips can become dependent on lip balm the more that you wear it, which can result in an endless cycle of chapped lips year round. However, if you already are a frequent lip balm user, consider using a balm this winter that is rich in antioxidants and essential oils in order to best protect lips from the cold.
Stay moisturized with essential oils! Similar to lip care, essential oils can help revitalize and replenish your skin as a whole. Oils help defend against flaky skin because of their ability to moisturize skin, and in many cases, they are a better source of moisturizer than actual moisturizing creams and lotions. Lavender and almond oils are some popular essential oils to rely on during the winter months, as lavender oil is known to reduce irritation and redness, and almond oil is full of hydrating fatty acids for sensitive skin.
Use a moisturizer daily! In addition to moisturizing with essential oils, supplementing your skin care routine with a daily moisturizing cream or lotion is an absolute must in order to keep skin hydrated. When applying a moisturizer, consistency is kay – therefore, daily (or even twice daily) application of a moisturizer is recommended. Also, be sure to apply moisturizer to skin that is slightly dampened with water rather than applying it to already dry skin. Finally, be sure that you aren’t laying it on too thick so that your foundation can still layer comfortably over top of it.
Protect your eyes! The harsh winds and dry, cold air conditions can especially take a toll on the thin, sensitive skin on your eyelids. In order to keep eyelids nourished and hydrated, supplement a lightweight, oil-based serum into your daily routine. Not only will this help protect against the winter weather, but it will aid in reducing redness and improving fine lines around your eyes year-round.
As harsh as winter can be, it doesn’t have to destroy your skin this year. Adding only a few simple steps into your daily skincare routine can make all the difference between dry, flaking, irritated skin and soft, glowing, healthy skin. Be sure to keep hydrated this winter and you’ll be sure to see a noticeable improvement in your overall complexion and skin healthiness – and feel all around more comfortable.