The cold winter air slapping against the face feels almost energizing if you live in a tropical region and experience long summers. The feeling may not be mutual for people who live in places that encounter harsh winters and remain covered in snow all year. The winter season is charming in many ways, but it does no favors to our skin. The skin of our face and hands suffers the most, as we keep them bare most of the time; it?s nearly impossible to get any work done wearing thick gloves or mittens.
People with oily skin experience bad acne and skin breakouts during summers, but they are at an advantage in winters. The freezing temperatures and dryness of winter turns the skin parched, patchy, rough, cracked, and itchy. People with overly sensitive skin may bear skin rashes and redness as well.Our attempts to warm up are not beneficial to the skin either. Sitting near the fire or bathing with scalding water promotes further dehydration. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and is not as refreshing as cool water on the skin; the explanation could be that cold water dissolves more oxygen.
The face and hands are two things people notice first about us, which is why neglecting them is unforgivable. In order to keep your skin looking silky smooth, radiant, and healthy in the winters, you will have to modify your skincare routine. The products that kept your skin spotless and glowing in the summers may not work after the change of weather. The key to restore the suppleness of your skin is to retain its natural moisture.
Double the Moisturizer
Winter moisturizers are a lot thicker than summer moisturizers. People with oily skin do not need to use a moisturizer in summers, but may have require a coat of light moisturizer in the winters. If you have normal to dry skin, your regular moisturizing lotion can be swapped with a moisturizing cream. Body and face creams have a dense structure, thus they are not readily absorbed by the skin. The coat of a moisturizing cream acts like a layer of insulation, i.e. entrapping heat and preventing loss of moisture. If your skin is extra dry and damaged, you may apply the moisturizer after every wash.
Humidify your Surroundings
The first thing we do as the temperature outside drops is crank up the thermostat. Artificial heating warms up the indoors, but it also increases aridity. Adjust the thermostat to achieve a pleasant atmosphere, rather than turning your home into a scorching desert. Place humidifiers in the rooms that are used the most, so that the air retains moisture and your skin remains hydrated.
Use Sunscreen and Lip Balm
It is a common misconception that sunscreen lotion is only applicable when it?s burning outside. The purpose of sunscreen is to protect ourselves from harmful UV rays of the sun, rather than the heat of summers. Sunlight in the winter may seem less intense, though you are stull exposed to the same ultraviolet radiation. Moisturizing sunscreen with SPF of 15 or greater should always be kept in handy. The skin of our lips becomes tender and peels off during winters, so always carry a lip balm/chap stick to sooth the sourness and restore fullness.
Condition the Scalp
The cold and dry winters also dehydrate the scalp, making out hair look dull and lifeless. Oiling your hair regularly shall help restore the natural oils of your skin and prevent dandruff. Use a moisturizing conditioner after washing your hair with shampoo. The conditioner will help seal your pores, thereby preventing loss of moisture and returning luster to the hair.
Mild or Natural Skincare Products
If you have sensitive skin that turns red on exposure to harsh cold weather, make sure to use mild skincare products. Products that have a strong scent or fragrance have a higher chemical content, which may cause irritation and inflammation. Look for fragrance-free options or simply go for natural substances. Coconut oil is great for skin, owing to its moisturizing and antibacterial properties; it is organic, odorless, and application comes with no side effects.??
Opt for Hydrating Formulas
Investing in a few winter-friendly skincare products won?t drive you into Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. In fact, astringents and skin toners are not required in the cold season. Cleansing and exfoliating is still important, as it removes the dead cells and dirt on the skin surface. As both products strip the skin of natural oils, you must look for hydrating formulas; select a foaming cleanser and a chemical exfoliator. Physical exfoliates have granules for scrubbing the skin, whereas chemical exfoliates are gentle against the skin.
Say ?YES? to Antioxidants
Cold air can cause stretched and cracked skin, making it appear patchy and wrinkly. Buy a night cream or serum that is rich in antioxidants; the anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties will keep your skin young and fresh. Antioxidants also reverse oxidative damage of skin triggered by UV radiation.
Author Bio
John Adams is a lifestyle blogger who concentrates on health, fitness, and self-development. He encourages readers to fight their fears and overcome obstacles holding them back. He believes that every person can improve the quality of his/her life by incorporating positivity and determination. He loves to share his insight on life experiences, and contributes on various online platforms in the same niche.
