Written by Adeline J. Wells
As we edge into the holiday season, there is no denying that the shift towards winter is right around the corner. No matter where you are, the change in winds, temperature, and humidity can drastically affect skin health. From hydration to elasticity, everything can be affected by the change in weather patterns. Here are a few ideas for ensuring your winter skin remains healthy all season long.
Hydrate the Skin
For your skin to remain healthy during the winter months, it is crucial to ensure it stays hydrated. Colder and less humid air can allow for the skin to lose its natural barrier, through which water can evaporate more quickly. For this reason, staying hydrated throughout the winter is important: maintain a high water intake and utilize a humidifier to add moisture to your home.
Protect Face from Wind
It sounds simple, but one of the easiest ways to protect the skin is to keep it covered! Items like scarves that we use to keep the skin warm also protect it from drying out, which leads to cracked, flaky, and dead skin. By keeping the face sufficiently covered when exposed to the elements, you keep warm and protect your skin's health.
Exfoliate
As the weather becomes colder and dryer, dead skin will accumulate more quickly than at other times of the year. Exfoliating is key to removing this buildup of cells, clearing them from the face so that new cells can grow. Doing so will reduce the appearance of any dry, flaky skin and allow moisturizer and other serums to penetrate the skin more thoroughly, lending for glowing winter skin.
Vitamin D Supplements
When the sun's Ultraviolet B rays hit the skin, the body absorbs them and converts them to Vitamin D, aiding skin, muscle, and bone health. As the Northern Hemisphere receives less sun exposure during the winter months, the body does not have the opportunity to produce as much Vitamin D. While Vitamin D is present in many foods, it can be challenging to receive the necessary amount during the winter months by diet alone. For this reason, taking Vitamin D supplements can be a beneficial step to ensuring you receive enough.
Layer Your Moisturizers
Skin has different needs at different times throughout the year. When the weather grows cool and dry in the winter, it may need a little extra hydration in order to thrive. Consider adding a heavier moisturizer to compliment your skincare routine. A thicker, heavier cream moisturizer can work to seal in lighter serums and oils more effectively, allowing the skin to remain hydrated. Be mindful to include a proper lip balm or petroleum product for the lips, whose skin is delicate and particularly susceptible to dryness.
