As beautiful as winter can be, it’s tough on your skin! Cold weather, especially in snowy climates, creates a perfect storm for dryness. Here's why:
Low Humidity Levels: cold air holds less moisture, leaving your skin vulnerable to dehydration.
Indoors, heating systems can make the air even drier.
Wind Exposure: harsh winds strip away your skin's natural protective oils, leaving it dry, red, and irritated.
Frequent Hot Showers: while warm showers feel amazing in the winter, they can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to moisture loss.
Lower water intake: when it’s cold outside fluid intake can decline and increase further risk of skin dehydration.
To keep your skin healthy and hydrated during winter here are a few tips:
Consider using a filtered, cool-mist humidifier, especially in your bedroom while you sleep
Before you crank up your furnace another degree or two, first opt to layer up your clothing.
Cover up when you’re outside - the more exposed skin you have the more the wind and cold air can steal your moisture. This is especially important for your hands if you are prone to eczema and dryness.
Avoid overly hot showers, use warm water instead.
After showering, immediately apply moisturizer to your skin to help trap the moisture. Avoid moisturizers with any added fragrance or harsh chemicals.
Ensure you stay adequately hydrated with regular small amounts of water intake throughout the day.
Protect your skin with SPF (yes, even in the snow!). Sunscreen should be worn every single day (especially if you have any concerns about photoaging!). My favorite is AlumierMD's Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum SPF 40 (available in tinted and untinted).
Check in with your provider to make sure you aren’t lacking in some key nutrients essential for skin barrier function!
✨ Your skin will thank you! ✨
Conclusion
Cold weather can be tough on your skin, but with the right care, you can keep it healthy, hydrated, and resilient all season long. By understanding how the cold impacts your skin and taking proactive steps—like moisturizing regularly, protecting your skin from harsh elements, and staying hydrated—you can maintain a vibrant, skin no matter how low the temperatures drop.
Remember, your skin is your first line of defense against the elements, so treat it with care! If you’re looking for personalized advice or need help choosing the best products for winter skincare, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to keep your skin glowing, even in the coldest months! ❄️✨
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