Cold Weather Skincare

As temperatures drop, it's important to adopt a cold weather skincare routine that really treats one of your most precious organs right!

Don't let harsh weather harm your skin.

When it comes to following a skincare regimen best suited to your skin type, you probably think first and foremost about products. This is not at all surprising, since skincare products are formulated to provide some sort of benefit or perform a specific function to treat, protect or care for the skin. However, winter skincare requires more than just a handful of pampering products (though these are very necessary). In addition to finding the products that work best for you, you'll need to follow a few tips to ensure that the harsh weather and dry air don't do a number on your skin.

Not everyone suffers from dry skin, but winter naturally takes its toll on the skin. Heaters are cranked on and the skin inevitably begins to dry out. This can cause even those with otherwise normal skin to experience sudden tightness and even irritation. The dryness likely occurs most commonly on the hands, feet and face, but other parts of the body are not immune to the discomfort.

Some people suffer from dry skin year round. For those individuals, winter brings a few extra problems to contend with. For example, already dry, tight skin may begin to peel, crack, flake or even suffer an eczema outbreak, resulting in inflamed, severely uncomfortable skin.

Fortunately, there are a number of precautionary measures you can take to protect your skin and enjoy winter without suffering constant discomfort! Read on to learn more about the basic tips of cold weather skincare that will keep you comfortable even in the face of the severe conditions.

Moisture is the key word. You may be dependent on a specific lotion throughout the year, but when winter hits, it's time to kick things up a notch. Invest in a rich, oil-based facial moisturizer. Oil-based formulas are superior to water-based versions during the winter because they form a protective layer over the skin. Products that contain avocado oil, mineral oil, almond oil or primrose oil are all ideal candidates for facial use.

Your body's moisturizer can afford to be thicker, too. A jar of rich, pampering shea butter will instantly hydrate the skin in a way that no thin, watery lotion can. In order to really reap its benefits, pat yourself down with a towel after your shower and apply the moisturizer to slightly damp skin. This helps seal in the moisture – a crucial move during the winter.

Speaking of showers, they're not your best friends during the winter. In fact, they can be considered enemy number one if you're already suffering from dry skin. Many experts recommend taking quick, warm (or even lukewarm, if you can tolerate it) showers. While a soak in a steaming bath may feel great at the moment, it does you no favors in the long run. Toss in a packet of soothing colloidal oatmeal if you're suffering from winter itchiness – it will help alleviate the discomfort.

When the heat is on, your skin is simply not on. All that hot air can cause immense dryness. Place small humidifiers in various areas of your home. They'll infuse the air with moisture and keep your skin more supple.

All of the toners, astringents, scrubs and masks you're so fond of can take a backseat during the winter. This is important if your skin is particularly sensitive in cold weather. They strip moisture from the skin and can contribute to your discomfort. Use thick, creamy cleansers if your skin is regularly dry or a foaming gel if your skin is oily.

Despite popular opinion, sunscreen is important no matter what time of year it is. Slather on a moisturizing, broad-spectrum product with an SPF of at least 15. Be sure to apply it to any areas that are exposed to the sun – your face, hands, neck and perhaps even your arms are all fair game.

If you begin to suffer serious discomfort and can't find relief from over-the-counter products, you may be suffering from eczema. A dermatologist can lead you in the right direction and prescribe you a treatment that will make a difference..

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