Out with the old, in with the new — skin care regimen, that is. What worked for the warm, summer days you spent at the beach, could potentially cause major damage to your skin in the bitter winter months. In fact, it has been proven that the combination of salt water from beaches, chlorine in pool water and overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to dry, damaged skin.
The humidity in the summer months tends to cause more oil production thus leading to the need for oil-free cleansers and moisturizers. However, in the cooler months, there is less humidity triggering our natural oil production ultimately putting your skin in danger. Sad to say, it’s time to put away your summer faves and purchase new products.
No need to worry, these healthy skin care tips can help you revamp your skin care techniques to fit the season.
- Cream Cleansers
Although gel based cleansers may have “done the trick” in the summer, they can cause your skin to flake and dry-out in the colder months. We highly recommend tossing the gel-based cleansers and purchasing thicker cream products. Cream-based products pack in moisture to protect you from the dreaded winter cold. Fragrance-free Cream cleansers that have Vitamin C are ideal for protecting and moisturizing sensitive and dry skin.
- Vitamin E based lotions
You may have taken cooler showers in the summer to beat the heat, however, in the winter hot showers may be your guilty pleasure. Unfortunately, the hotter the water temperature, the drier your skin may become. Although it keeps you warmer before stepping into the fierce winter cold, it might be best to lower the water temperature to save your skin the trouble. After your shower try using Vitamin E based lotions and make sure you are moisturizing your skin daily to prevent flaking or drying out.
- Oil based facial scrubs
For years people have been marketing oil-free facial cleansers and scrubs. Many beauty companies have opposed oil-based cleansers due to clogging pores, etc. However, purchasing an oil based facial scrub for the cooler months can help naturally protect and heal your skin while keeping it moisturized. Some of the best fall/winter scrubs for drier skin are made of thick/greasier oils like coconut, olive oil, rice bran oil, sunflower oil and soybean oil. These oils are very rich in Vitamins A, D, E & K, known for moisture and healthy hydration.
- Hydrate
Managing your skin also includes preventing your lips from chapping and cracking due to harsh winds. Although Petroleum Jelly may be the easiest to find in local drug stores like CVS, petroleum provides a false sense of hydration and can often irritate the skin if used too frequently. This season, a beeswax based lip balm should do the trick! Brands such as Burt’s Bees and Eos are the best for hydrating your lips while making them softer.
- Sun Protection
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more than 90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. During the winter, snow reflects up to 80% of UV ray light from the sun exposing us to harmful rays.
With that being said, sunscreen is not just a summer staple product. Using sunscreen during the colder months can protect your face from this winter’s weather. Sunscreen facial moisturizers can keep your face hydrated and nourished and prevents skin irritations. Also try using sunscreen products with glycerin or lanolin to pack in the moisture.
Follow these 5 skincare tips closely to keep your skin feeling refreshed, hydrated and beautiful when the season changes!
