Unless you’re among the lucky camp that never has to worry about their skin, seasonal changes can wreak havoc on your complexion. Our skin is the largest organ of the body, so it definitely needs some extra special attention. In order to avoid the drying effects of winter, take a look at these tips below.
Talk To a Specialist
While it may seem indulgent, working with a great skin care specialist is one of the best things you can do for your skin. These are specialized skin experts that can assess your skin for any underlying issues, and explain how to best use skin care products to your advantage. For instance, if you have sensitive, climate sensitive skin, he or she will most likely tell you to avoid benzoyl peroxide, as it can dry out your skin.
If you’re looking for a bit of pampering, estheticians can also perform customized facials to help that dry winter skin begin to rehydrate. Generally you should see an esthetician a few times a year, but this is an investment that’s definitely worth it.
Set Up a Skin Care Routine
Once you’ve seen a skin care expert, they’ll likely have given you a set of products that will work well with your skin. It’s important that you set up a regime and stick to it, and it’s essential that you use all products as directed. While those suffering from dry skin should avoid over washing, it’s essential to cleanse, tone and moisturize twice day. You’ll most likely need to use a heavier moisturizer at night than during the day; however, if you have a combination of both dry and oily skin it may be helpful to avoid using the denser moisturizer on areas more prone to oil production (like the “T” zone).
Be Mindful of Your Diet
Most experts will tell you that skin health begins on the inside. Often, when the weather turns cooler, we tend to drink less water and unknowingly begin to dehydrate our bodies, which is directly reflected in our complexions. This is why it’s important to remember to drink plenty of water all year round. This keeps not only our skin but all of our organs functioning optimally. If you find yourself struggling to drink enough, try to alternate with green tea or find creative ways to entice you to sip more H20 throughout the day. You’ll also want to take a look at your diet as well. Foods like salmon, nuts and avocados that are filled with omega fatty acids that are skin friendly and help us rehydrate our bodies from the inside. Sweet potatoes filled with beta-carotene can supply skin with cell-repairing nutrients that help reverse tissue damage and prevent premature aging, while water and silica-rich vegetables like cucumbers improve both moisture and skin elasticity. Have fresh produce at the ready by using a service like FarmBoxDirect.com—you’ll find fresh fruits and veggies at your doorstep every week! Eating healthy has never been easier.
Keep It Cool
When the outdoor temps start dropping, the indoor temps steadily get higher. Be careful to avoid taking extra hot showers or sitting next to heater that’s cranking out the heat. Prolonged exposure to hot temperatures strips both the skin and the hair of much-needed moisture. Keep showers shorter and cooler and try not to sit too close to any direct heat sources. And, speaking of keeping it cooler, the winter season tends to be stressful for many individuals with the pressures of holiday planning. Stress has many harmful effects on our bodies, and our skin is no exception. Make sure to incorporate time to relax into your winter schedule. Head to a yoga class, reinvigorate your meditation practice, make sure to get an extra hour or two of sleep or take some time to do something that feels calming… your skin will thank you.