As the temperature outside drops, your body starts to make some changes to deal with the colder weather. Your skin is definitely going to feel the change. Cold temperatures outside coupled with using often dry-heat inside can cause problems for skin, including loss of moisture, tightness, and overall dryness. For some people, winter skin problems can be even more serious, with issues like cracking and inflammation that may lead to eczema.
But don’t panic. There are things you can do to help protect, treat and pamper winter skin. And the good news is that many of them start right in your own home. Here are some terrific tips to take care of your winter skin.
Moisturize: As the season changes, so should your skin care routine. Winter skin needs more moisture than skin at any other time of year. Oil-based moisturizers are best for the colder months because it can help prevent moisture loss in your skin. According to winter skin care tips from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), ointment moisturizers are best for this, as opposed to the more liquid lotions. Look for something that is about 80 percent oil and 20 percent water in make up, especially if you are dealing with low humidity, a common winter problem.
Speaking of low humidity, invest in a good home humidifier. Heating systems tend to make the air inside your home very dry, which isn’t great for the skin. By using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, you can help winter skin suffer less. Humidifiers are easily found in drugstores, department stores, and big box stores, as well as online. They are often inexpensive and small enough to place them in inconspicuous locations throughout your house, or you can choose to get larger, more expensive ones. Some houses can also be adapted with a humidifier system. Look around and decide what is best for your needs and your budget.
Don’t forget the sunscreen! Many people forget that sunscreen is a year-round necessity. In winter, especially in areas that get a lot of snowfall, it’s actually very important. Snow actually amplifies the sun’s reflective powers — 80 percent on snow as opposed to 17 percent on sand. You’d never skip the sunscreen at the beach, so don’t skip it now. Use a daily, broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, and remember to reapply often.
See a professional. Winter is one of the best times to seek the help and advice of professional aestheticians, such as the ones here at Mariposa MedSpa. A good skin care specialist is one of your best defenses against cold weather skin issues.
Our trained medical professionals are here to help you determine the best wintertime regimen for your skin. We can recommend treatments — such as a relaxing and moisturizing facial — and help you find the best at-home products for your skin type and your skin issues. We can answer your questions no matter what time of year, and we will help keep you glowing all year round. Call us today to schedule your consultation.
