Switch Up your Skincare for the Chilly Temps of Winter

Image Courtesy: Luna Mag

Temperatures have dropped, signaling winter is on its way. Whether you are excited for cute sweaters and hot chocolate or dreading having to bundle up every morning, it's no secret this cold weather will completely affect our skincare routine. You may notice that as it gets colder, your skin starts to get dryer. According to Dermalogica, this is from the weather stripping away your skin's natural barrier, causing dehydration. Since your skin no longer has that barrier, this can result in rashes and eczema breakouts. Fortunately, there are easy fixes to make sure your skin stays hydrated all winter long.

In the wintertime more than ever, it is extremely important to use your moisturizer. This will help lock in hydration and help prevent the breakdown of that natural barrier. According to Dr. Angela Lamb, director of the Westside Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice in New York City, you should be applying a thick moisturizer every time you get out of the shower, and then at least one more time throughout the day. A great moisturizer to try is the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream. It's fast-absorbing and will keep your skin hydrated all day long.

Although a nice sugar scrub to exfoliate your skin would put you right in the holiday spirit, you should try to exfoliate much less in the winter. With your natural barrier already being broken down from the cold, this will only speed the process along, according to Dr. Jaber, a dermatologist at Washington Square Dermatology in New York City. He also suggests that if you insist on exfoliating, then only do this once a week. If you choose to exfoliate, I suggest Neutrogena Hydro Boost Exfoliating Cleanser. This is a gentler option than a harsh sugar scrub that could potentially cause more harm and irritation to your skin's natural barrier.

If you thought the skincare stopped while you were sleeping, you are very wrong. One of the best things you can do for your skin in the winter is to constantly keep moisture in the air. Dr. Lamb highly suggests using a humidifier during the nighttime to help prevent dryness. The humidifier is especially helpful if you generally keep the heat high in your house because that too could be drying out your skin. Dr. Rachel Nazarian, of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, explains that skin cells are most likely to repair and renew themselves while you sleep, which is why it is so important to moisturize at night.

While the winter is a great time for enjoying the holidays and spending time with friends and family, don't forget to spend a little bit of time on your skin, too. Making these small changes could greatly impact how you look and feel like the holidays – and cold weather – roll around.

Strike Out,

Writer: Holly Wilson

Editors: Giselle Parks and Savannah Tindall

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