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 keeping your winter skin healthy all season long.
Hydrate the Skin
For your skin to remain healthy during the winter months, it is crucial that it stays hydrated. Colder and less humid air allows the skin to lose its natural barrier, through which water then evaporates more quickly. For this reason, staying hydrated through the winter matters: maintain a high water intake and use a humidifier to add moisture to your home.
Protect Your 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 keep you warm also protect skin from drying out, which is what leads to cracked, flaky patches. By keeping your face sufficiently covered when exposed to the elements, you stay warm and protect your skin at the same time.
Exfoliate
As the weather becomes colder and drier, dead skin accumulates more quickly than at other times of the year. Exfoliating clears that buildup so new cells can come through. Doing so reduces the appearance of dry, flaky patches and allows moisturizer and serums to penetrate more thoroughly.
Vitamin D
When the sun’s ultraviolet B rays hit the skin, the body converts them to Vitamin D, which supports skin, muscle, and bone health. As the Northern Hemisphere receives less sun exposure during the winter months, the body has less opportunity to produce it. While Vitamin D is present in many foods, it can be difficult to get enough through diet alone in winter, so a supplement may be worth discussing with your doctor.
Layer Your Moisturizers
Skin has different needs at different times of year. When the weather grows cool and dry, it may need extra hydration to thrive. Consider adding a heavier moisturizer to your routine. A thicker cream can seal in lighter serums and oils more effectively, helping the skin stay hydrated. Be mindful to include a proper lip balm as well, since the skin there is delicate and particularly susceptible to dryness.
