Winter Skin Causes

Submitted by Patrick Hatfield on

Winter skin is the worst.  As we enter into the winter season, our skin loses moisture due to the hotter showers, drier air, and humidity-depleting indoor heating.  We have to moisturize extra to ensure that we are giving our skin the moisture it is losing through the winter months.  Winter skin can be a pain, but here are some tips to keep your skin healthy and moisturized.

Bath Time – We tend to take longer baths and showers, because we don’t want to step out into the cold. So, enjoy your bath and shower time, but invest in a body oil that can trap the moisture in your skin as soon as you dry off.

Cleansers – Consider a moisturizing cleanser for the winter that has the power of healing vitamins, like vitamin C.  You don’t want to use the same cleanser that you were using in the summer, switch it up for the changing seasons. 

Moisturize – This seems obvious in the moisturizing world.  But you must make sure you are using moisturizers that are penetrating your skin and actually helping to heal.  Also, make sure to moisturize after you have taken a shower so you can lock in the moisture that your skin has just received.

Add Moisture – Invest in a humidifier in your bedroom, so your skin can hydrate while you sleep.  This will help with your breathing as well, since we tend to get stuffy noses in the winter time.  Adding a bit of moisture can mean amazing skin for you.

Exfoliate – The skin will be even more flaky in the summer time, so make sure to exfoliate your skin at least twice a week.  Although the skin is dry and flaky, exfoliation will ensure that the outer layer is removed so the fresh skin underneath can shine through.  Don’t over exfoliate, since that can lead to even drier and flaky skin.

Sun Block – Even though the sun isn’t shining, you must protect your skin during the winter months.  The UVA/B rays are still present and the cloudy days of the winter can be extremely dangerous for sun damage.

Lips – Don’t forget your lips as they tend to lose moisture the most.  Petroleum jelly products will create a barrier to keep them from drying out.  Make sure to not lick them too much, since the saliva actually increases irritation.

Omega-3 – This wonderful supplement can be ingested and help you will your skin from the inside-out.  It is also in many products that can be applied directly to your skin.  Eating well is a way to ensure your skin is functioning at its best.

Anti-Aging – Understand that skin treatments for acne and anti-aging can be overly drying to the skin.  They can still be used, since they are vital to the health of you skin.  Use these products every other day to ensure the skin doesn’t get severely dry.  The flaking and irritation can e much worse in the winter, so just be aware.