Winter lifesavers for dry skin
The winter is a tough time for your skin — the combination of cold weather and dry air through heaters and abrasive winter clothing can definitely make your skin cracked and flaky. During winter months, skin peaks in its dryness and you’ll have to take extra precautions to ensure that it stays hydrated and moisturized. With a few simple steps you’ll have healthy skin that hydrated. Follow our directions below so you have supple and glowing skin every day.
1. Exfoliate
Your first thought that probably comes to mind to avoid cracked skin is avoid exfoliating, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! In the winter, dead skin cells tend to accumulate on your skin which makes it hard for beneficial products such as moisturizers and hydration to work effectively. In order to make this layer of skin accessible, slough off dead skin cells with a clean soft towel or non-abrasive liquid scrub.
2. Moisturizer
Now that your skin is primed, make sure that you are giving it the nourishment it needs. Try products with glycerin and ceramides to really replenish your dry, flaky skin. Keep in mind that timing is everything — after you wash your face, moisturize as soon as possible. When water evaporates off your face it also draws out moisture. Don’t let that happen by applying within 60 seconds.
3. Avoid Hot Water
Do you love how hot water feels against your face? Unfortunately that feeling has negative effects on your skin. Use lukewarm water instead because hot water strips skin of its natural oil barrier. This layer is essential in retaining moisture in your skin. Another thing to avoid is washing your face for too long. Keep your water exposure to a minimum.
4. Say No to Alcohol and Fragrance in Your Skin Care Routine
Say bye bye to alcohol in the form of toners, astringents and peels once wintertime hits, as they will dry out your skin. Instead use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers that contain fatty substances such as ceramides, which will give moisture and suppleness back to your skin, as well as enhance your skin’s barrier function.
With these four small changes in your skin care routine your skin can easily go from parched and cracked to gorgeous. Adjust your regime accordingly to reap maximum benefits.
