There are some things about the wintertime that are quite pleasant. You may be looking forward to a few rainy or snowy days spent cuddled under a blanket, or a roaring fire. You may not be looking forward to the dry, red, cracked skin that is common in the winter months. Here, we discuss how you can avoid such problems with a few simple wintertime skincare tips.
Put a Major Focus on Moisture
When we read about how to care for the skin once cold weather hits, we often hear about the value of a good moisturizer. We won’t refute that. However, we will say it’s important to go one step further. The reason experts talk about moisturizing winter skin is that cold air is dry air. When the air is dry, the moisture in the skin evaporates more quickly. The skin’s protective barrier that holds in moisture is also thinner. To address this environmental factor, we need a multi-pronged approach. The skin can be nourished from the inside out by drinking plenty of water and other low-sugar liquids like tea. It is also helpful to use a humidifier to maintain adequate moisture in the air of the home or office.
Product Changes to Make Now
Remembering that the skin’s protective barrier, the one that locks in moisture and keeps out irritants, is thinner in the cold weather, we can recognize the need for a product change. Store the lighter lotions and face creams for the summertime. Now is the time to purchase emollient-rich products like CeraVe and Cetaphil. These products provide long-lasting hydration without irritation or clogging pores.
Rethink How You Exfoliate
Exfoliating is good for the skin. It removes dead and damaged skin cells that may otherwise clog pores, mottle the complexion, and reduce the efficacy of skincare products. During the cold-weather months, though, when that barrier is somewhat compromised, exfoliation can cause unnecessary irritation. For the best results, schedule a professional treatment at our Chicago medspa.
Don’t Take Damp Hands Outdoors
Have you ever noticed how, when you’re out in the cold and you lick your lips, they just seem to get more chapped? This happens because moisture on the skin dries very quickly in cold, dry air. Instead of licking the lips, one should apply an emollient lip balm. The hands are no different. If you’ve just washed them, make sure you dry them fully before exposing the skin to dry, cold air. Even better, carry a travel-sized bottle of thick hand cream with you to apply before going outdoors.
We can keep you looking and feeling your best through the winter months. Call (312) 266-6240 to schedule a visit with our plastic surgery or med spa team.