How Your Skin Changes in the Winter & What You Can Do About It

It’s no secret that the winter months can do a number on our delicate skin. The drop in temperature outside can leave us with rosy cheeks from just about the instant we step outside. And dealing with the cold air outside and the warm air from heating inside can cause dry, cracked skin that feels irritated and sensitive. While it’s not fun to deal with, you don’t have to let it defeat you! We have some tips to help you combat the negative effects winter has on our skin. 

Adjust Your Skincare Routine

The first thing you absolutely must do once the cold weather hits is to adjust your skincare routine. The products you were using during spring and summer just won’t cut it this time of year! Odds are, you reach for a lighter moisturizer when the weather is warm and your skin craves extra moisture when the temperature drops. Without proper moisturization, it can lead to dry, cracked skin that feels tight and uncomfortable.

Swap out those light moisturizers for ones that are thicker and creamier. If you aren’t sure what to look for, find moisturizers that are designed for dry skin or choose night creams which tend to be thicker in formulation. Make sure you’re moisturizing both morning and night to keep your skin in tip-top shape!

It’s also a good idea to ditch any harsh products since your skin is prone to sensitivity this time of year. Don’t go overboard on the harsh scrubs and skip out on any chemical peels which can lead to unwanted irritation. Instead, stick with more soothing and hydrating products, and pick skin-friendly exfoliation options like gommage.

Wear Sunscreen

Even though summer is over, don’t think you can skimp on the SPF! It’s just as important to wear sunscreen during the winter as it is during the summer. So, if you’re heading outdoors, take an extra few minutes to slather on some sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The sun still shines bright during the winter, especially on those snowy days when the sun’s rays reflect off of the snow on the ground.

Don’t Neglect the Rest of Your Body

While you’re paying extra attention to your face, don’t neglect the rest of your body. It’s just as important to keep your body moisturized as it is to keep your face moisturized. Get into the habit of moisturizing after taking a shower to prevent your hands, feet, and other body parts from becoming dry and irritated. This is the best time to apply moisturizer to your body since your skin can really absorb it!

Turn on the Humidifier

Do you have a humidifier in your house? If not, this is the perfect time to get one and start using it! Because we use central heating and space heaters to stay warm while indoors during the winter, the moisture gets sucked out of the air. When the moisture gets sucked out of the air, it also starts to dry out our skin. To combat this, use small humidifiers throughout your house to add back some moisture and protect your skin.

Stay Hydrated

While it’s important to stay hydrated year-round, it’s especially important during the winter months. Staying hydrated isn’t just important for your skin, but it’s crucial for your overall health as well. You don’t want to become dehydrated after all! Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water each and every day to stay healthy.

Seek Help From a Specialist

And finally, another great tip is to seek help from a specialist. If you find that you really struggle keeping your skin healthy and hydrated during the winter months, talk to a skincare specialist at your local spa. They will be able to recommend products that will help you combat the redness, dryness, and irritation many deal with this time of year.