Fall Skin Care Tips for the Entire Body
There’s something to be said for “heading south” as things get cooler, especially when it comes to taking care of your body during the fall. Cooler weather equals low humidity levels and dry air...which means your skin is losing moisture all day long. Here are a few tips that will help make sure you are taking care of your entire body (not just your face) when it comes to skin care during the fall and winter.
1. Moisturize from the outside in
Start with what you put on your body...be sure to use the same quality products there as you would on your face. The key? Start with a moisturizing body wash (watch the shower temperature in the winter...not too hot). The right body wash can act as a pre-moisturizing hydrating serum, increasing the power of a body moisturizer, leading to hydrated, firmer skin. And be sure to moisturize more often. You really can’t get enough when the weather gets cooler.
Keep skin hydrated from the outside in by adding a humidifier to the bedroom starting in the fall. Humidifiers are a great way to add moisture into the home during months where the heater is running much of the time. Also increase the amount of water you drink each day...adding an extra glass or two can’t hurt. Eating foods high in water content can also help hydrate the skin. Try watermelon, cantaloupe, apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots. And of course take enough vitamin C and zinc to support the healthy production of collagen and elastin.
2. Go ahead and cover up
Bundle up to keep warm, but also as a way to protect the skin. Fall is the perfect time to wear all your favorite scarves, hats, gloves, and socks to protect the skin from the cold, wind and rain. And don’t forget the sunscreen. The fall and winter sun can be just as harsh on the skin.
3. Exfoliate
We know you understand the importance of exfoliating the face, but what about the body, feet and hands? You can use all the moisturizer in the world, but if it can’t penetrate the skin due to dead skin cells, why bother? Exfoliating the body, hands and feet once a week will create a noticeable difference.