Winter can be tough on your skin. Cold air, harsh winds, and indoor heating can strip away moisture leaving your skin feeling dry, tight, and irritated. But with the right skincare routine, you can maintain a healthy, radiant glow all season long. Here’s how:
1. Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser
Gel and foaming cleansers can be too drying in the winter. Instead, opt for a hydrating, cream-based cleanser with glycerin or ceramides that gently removes impurities while maintaining your skin’s moisture barrier.
2. Layer on Hydration
Cold weather calls for extra hydration. Use a hydrating toner or essence after cleansing to add moisture, followed by a hyaluronic acid serum to lock it in. Always apply your products while your skin is slightly damp to maximize absorption.
3. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
Swap lightweight summer lotions for richer creams that provide deeper hydration. Look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and shea butter to help strengthen your skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss.
4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Even on gray winter days, UV rays can still cause skin damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, especially if you spend time outdoors or near reflective surfaces like snow.
5. Use a Humidifier
Indoor heating can dry out the air and your skin. A humidifier adds moisture to your environment, helping keep your skin hydrated and comfortable.
6. Exfoliate, But Gently
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, helping your skin absorb moisture better. However, over-exfoliating can lead to irritation. Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid once or twice a week to maintain a smooth complexion.
7. Protect Your Lips and Hands
Your lips and hands are especially prone to dryness in winter. Use a nourishing lip balm with ingredients like beeswax or shea butter, and keep a rich hand cream on hand to prevent chapping and cracking.
8. Stay Hydrated From Within
Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Herbal teas and water-rich foods like cucumbers and oranges can also help maintain moisture levels.
9. Choose Soothing Ingredients
If your skin becomes red or irritated, look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and chamomile to calm inflammation and restore balance.
Not sure where to begin? Schedule a free consultation with our board-certified nurse practitioner, Charles Jovellano at Natural Beauty Fifth Avenue so we can help you navigate the right treatments and skincare routine just for you.
