6 ways to prepare your skin for winter
The winter season is on its way and let’s face it, it’s not good for your skin.
Harsh winds, cold temperatures and dry air tend to sap your skin of its natural oils.
And end up leaving it dry and stressed.
Changes in your skincare routine and eating more sugar products than usual can cause an occasional breakout.
The change of season always takes a toll on your skin. The winter season is the time when people usually complain about their skin conditions. There are many subtle things that can affect your skin. While some of those things are experienced outdoors in cold weather, even indoor air can leave skin parched because it tends to lack natural moisture.
As the season’s change, so does your skin’s needs. Here are a few ways to prepare your skin for the winter season.
Make the switch from lotion to cream
When the winter season arrives, you’re likely to change your wardrobe. Well, it’s a good idea to do the same with your skin emollient. It’s best to make use of a cream during the winter, which is typically more moisturising. Lotions usually don’t provide a strong enough oily barrier to reduce water loss in the skin. Buy a cream that specifically targets dry and sensitive areas on your skin. Although creams feel heavier on the skin, they do a much better job at protecting against temperature and humidity extremes. And skin usually feels better if you bump up to a richer moisturiser that has more oil content and less water content. Depending on what cream you buy, it’s usually good to put it on at night.
Take shorter showers
The things that make you feel good in the moment, such as long, hot showers, can actually leave your skin crying out for moisture in the long run. So instead you should opt for shorter and lukewarm showers. Don’t dry your skin with a towel, rather pat it dry. Following with a layer of moisturiser from head to toe. And if you can afford it, use shower gel instead of soap for extra skin enrichment. Your body will get a better clean and shower gel adds to your moisturising routine.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen
Many think because it’s winter they don’t have to apply sunscreen. However, it doesn’t matter if it’s winter or summer or whether you spend the whole day indoors or running around outside, you still have to apply sunscreen. Though you’re less exposed to the sun in winter, you shouldn’t stop protecting yourself from its rays. Many creams offer sun protection qualities but you should make sure your choose one that has an SPF rating of 15 or higher. And if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, an SPF of 30 or higher is even better.
Wear gloves
Because your hands are always open, they suffer the most during winter. And usually, because you wash them more often to avoid the germs that can cause infections. Most people wait until temperatures turn freezing before wearing gloves but it’s recommended to wear them every day until spring. Sometimes, even minor skin chapping on the hands can turn into fissures that can become infected. Carry a moisturiser around with you and apply it regularly. To protect your hands from the harsh winter weather, the key is to start using gloves when it starts getting cold outside. Taking care of your skin and protecting it is good.
Exfoliate
It doesn’t matter how cold and dry the air gets, exfoliation will be the key to you having smooth skin this winter. You’ve spent the summer outdoors in the heat and sun and the shift to winter is noticeable on your skin in the form on sunburn or sunspots. Exfoliate your skin to prevent dry skin and to help maintain luminosity.
If you allow dead skin cells to build up, the result is a lacklustre complexion and possibly clogged pores. If you have a sensitive skin, pick up a gentle face scrub and use regularly. Or you could speak to someone at your beauty counter to help you find the best product for your skin type. But you shouldn’t over do it because you may risk traumatising your face, especially in the winter months.
Drink more water and follow a healthy eating plan
Your eating plan also has a big effect on the way your skin looks. So to protect your skin before winter arrives, it’s important to drink lots of water and keep nutrients high by eating vegetables and healthy fats. It’s a bonus if you’re a lover of green tea as the antioxidants are an added boost for your skin. Look for foods containing calcium and vitamin D. And if any skin problems arise, then it might be best to consult a dermatologist.
Winter is around the corner so it’s important to start adapting your beauty regimen to its conditions now. That way, when the temperatures drop your skin will be ready for it.