winter skin care tips for your routine

The Best Winter Skin Care Tips For Your Routine

We all know that as soon as the seasons change, it’s time to start preparing for the winter. Depending on where you live this will look different. In an area like San Diego, it’s all about a light jacket and having an umbrella handy; if you live up north, say in Minnesota, it’s all about the winter gear, including, puffy coats, scarves, snow boots, and snow shovels. But what about other areas of our lives that could benefit from a little winterizing?

For instance, our skin takes a huge hit in the winter. If you’ve lived through dry winters you know that this is important to think about when the seasons change. Summer routines won’t cut in in the wintertime. So here are some winter skin care tips that will hopefully help you!

Winter Skin Care Tips For Your Routines

Your exposure and weather effects on your skin in the winter months will vary depending on your skin type and where you live. However, there are several common things to be aware of in the winter, and these winter skin care tips should help you be on your way!

Winter Dryness

Unless you live near the equator, this will be a problem in the winter. For example, in San Diego where humidity is low, winter dryness is a huge problem and can take a toll.

First, Hydrate.

Hydrate some more. Then hydrate again. Buy a large flask if it helps. Fill it up at the beginning of the day and then drink throughout with the goal of finishing the entire thing. Alternatively, be sure that for every non-water drink you have, you follow it with a glass of water.

I have this exact bottle, and I highly recommend it:

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Then, moisturize.

If you don’t have a good moisturizer, get one. One of the best over-the-counter products is CeraVe. Whichever you decide to use, be sure to moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower when your skin is still damp. That’s when maximal absorption happens!

Consider Hydrating Serums

Hyaluronic acid is an excellent hydrating serum. The issue with serums of any kind though is knowing if the product you’re buying has enough of what you need, or will suit your skin type. Reach out to friends and see what they use, check out reviews online, and experiment to see what works for you.

If it’s really bad, or you’re hoping to level up your routine, then consider medical-grade products. Visit your Dermatologist and visit a Med-spa. Get a facial and see what the practitioner recommends. Do this research, and then be prepared to open up your wallets! These products won’t run cheap, but the right product can make a huge difference and make it worth your while.

Hydrating Masks

In addition to the facials mentioned above, consider using some hydrating masks. You can get the ones that are over the counter at the drugstore or invest in something from Sephora. Doing this, perhaps once a week can help moisturize skin greatly. Plus, with a facemask on, you’re kind of forced to relax – nothing better for your skin than some R&R!

Exfoliate

If you’re dry and peeling, then be sure to exfoliate regularly. It’ll help you remove that peeling/dry skin, and exposed skin is more likely to absorb your creams and serums. Whatever your summer routine for exfoliation is, add a couple of days in between so that you aren’t doing this too frequently.

In addition, be cognizant of the ingredients in your exfoliants. You want natural, gentle exfoliators that are not harsh on the skin. You can cause more damage that way. Goat milk, for instance, contains lactic acid, which is considered a natural exfoliator. The lactic acid in goat milk helps remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate skin. For instance, natural goat milk soaps will not only serve as exfoliators but will reduce irritations and help keep the skin barrier intact. You can opt for moisturizers, lotions, and soaps when looking for products that contain goat milk.

SPF

No matter what time of year it is, use SPF in your daily moisturizer, with at least SPF 30 in the product you choose.

Avoid Super Hot Showers

That’s right. Even though it’s cold out, the hot water can wreak havoc on your skin. This is because excessively hot water strips your skin’s natural oils, causing the dry, cracked skin (or tightness) you feel after drying off.

Warm showers are the way to go and can help you manage the winter dryness.

Revamp Nighttime Routines

The general teaching is that you must use your best, most restorative products at night before bed. As your body sleeps and rejuvenates, you’ll have the assistance of your favorite products to help your skin feel renewed and refreshed.

Some things to consider

  • Wash your face thoroughly every night (no excuses or skip days)
  • Exfoliate
  • Use a retinol to help with removing dead skin
  • Use your serums and moisturizer
  • Eye cream – helps maintain the delicate skin around your eyes to reduce puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles.
  • Change your pillowcases regularly (at least once a week) to ensure your sleeping environment is clean.

Watch Your Diet

Winter is prime time for snacks, treats, and hearty meals. Who wouldn’t want those things? However, winter weather and reduced daylight can also affect how and what we eat. Add in the cold weather, and your ability to get out and exercise is also affected.

Watch what you eat and try to minimize the number of sugary foods and caffeine you’re ingesting. Both can dehydrate your body and your skin, not to mention affect collagen.

Your Sleep

Protect this at all costs. Whatever routine works for you, keep at it. This time is crucial to rejuvenating not just your mind and body but your skin as well. A good night’s sleep can also affect your energy and your diet. Be sure always to make this a priority!

Exercise

Lastly, but possibly most importantly, is not forgetting to maintain your physical exercise during this time of year – and not just because of all the sweet treats that come with the season. The winter months bring less daylight, and with it, many of you may experience seasonal affective disorder, which alters your motivation and energy. Exercise is one way to help combat the winter blues.

Of course, depending on where you are, your routine may have to be altered to accommodate colder temperatures. If you typically get your workouts outside by running, walking, or doing yoga in the park, commit to doing those activities at home. If you’re not restricted by budget, investing in a treadmill or Peloton will keep you in great physical shape and emotional and mental shape. If you’re a yogi, consider joining indoor classes or subscribing to an app that resonates with you. Just make sure you’re staying warm while getting in your fitness. 

Exercise is a great way to rejuvenate your body, eliminate toxins, and release those happy endorphins. All of which can have a positive impact on your skin!

Don’t Forget Your Hair

People often overlook their scalp when it comes to skincare. But that’s skin too! Haircare during the winter may also need to be altered to adjust to the winter weather. All that cold, dry air can feel like a godsend if you have hair that tends to frizz in humid summer, but you still need to protect your hair in the winter.

Hopefully, you’re well-versed in your hair type and the kind of products that suit it best. Ensuring you use the right products for your hair type is half the battle. But whether you need curly hair products or products for greys, making sure you hydrate your hair is essential this time of year. 

Bringing It All Together

Winter is a wonderful time for hot cocktails, delicious, comforting food, and time with friends and family. Knowing how to adjust your routines with these winter skin care tips can help you maintain your glowing winter skin, continue to care for yourself, and help you relax without worry!

Stay warm and safe (and hydrated) out there!

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