Tips for Hydrating Your Dry, Winter Skin
Hydration and moisture—during the winter months it probably feels as though your skin just can’t get enough. Cold weather, low humidity and the warmth of indoor heating means your winter skin is dry and sensitive. It can be so challenging at times that studies show the number of skin conditions rise significantly during the winter months. The cure? Think hydration. But this goes beyond just using even the best moisturizer. Read on for a few tips on how to keep your skin looking beautiful despite the winter season.
Gently Exfoliate
Exfoliation is key in removing those 10 billion dead skin cells we shed every day. No matter how many moisturizers and serums you apply, dry skin will still be dry without some regular exfoliation. Choose a gentle scrub, or even better, try a peel. Designed to refine the skin’s surface and promote cell turnover, peels use alpha hydroxy acid to remove that layer of dead skin. Choose a peel that also incorporates all-natural botanicals such as aloe to soothe and protect. Once your skin is buffed and smooth, your other products are much more effective in healing dry skin.
Soak in the Serums
Serums definitely shine during the winter. Applied after cleansing but before your moisturizer, serums go a long way in protecting damage to our skin caused by free radicals and elements in the air. Serums are antioxidant powerhouses that will help prevent dehydration, are anti-aging, and will help heal the skin while you sleep. Look for a serum designed for your skin type, or try a vitamin C serum to help not only brighten dull winter skin, but boost collagen.
Use an Ultra-Rich Moisturizer
When it comes to your face and neck, an intensive, hydrating moisturizer is best. Start by discovering your skin type and then choosing the best moisturizer that is ideal for whatever skin issues you are dealing with. In the winter, you’ll want to look for a moisturizer that supports healing and repair, while soothing redness, irritation, and dryness. Moisturizers should always be used as part of your morning and nighttime skincare routine. Look for a product that hydrates, plumps and nourishes dehydrated skin—it should protect while sealing in moisture.
Beyond Skincare
There are other things you can do to help keep your skin hydrated during the winter months beyond your skincare routine. Start with drinking your water. Begin each day by drinking a full bottle of water and then continue to hydrate throughout the day. Eating certain foods can also help keep your skin hydrated. Kale, red bell peppers, avocados and blueberries are all foods that can enhance the health of your skin.
Don’t forget to look for ways to keep the air in your home from being dry too. The drier the air, the drier your skin, so consider investing in a good humidifier in the rooms you frequent the most—especially the bedroom. The skin regenerates and heals overnight, so keeping a humidifier by your bed—along with a glass of water—will go a long way to creating a good foundation in the morning for hydrated skin.