The winter can be harsh on your skin. Dry air, cold temperatures and that bitter winter wind can leave your skin dry, rough and irritated. Winter weather strips your skin of moisture and of its natural, moisturizing oils, as the skin loses its moisture, the outer layer begins to feel dry, itchy, and tight. Untreated, the skin may eventually develop conditions like eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis.
There are ways to combat winter effects on the skin not just topically but by changing up your environment as well. Here are a few suggestions to ensure GLOWing winter skin.
- Use a humidifier in your room - Heating systems dry out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your home, particularly in your bedroom, to put moisture back into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out. Because 50–60% of the human body is made of water, dry conditions may pull moisture out leaving behind dry skin, chapped lips and possibly even bloodshot eyes. Our bodies rely on the correct amount of water to feel good, not to mention function at an optimal level. Because our skin has so much surface area, it is often the place that we notice first when we are in extremely dry conditions.
- Lower the thermostat and cuddle - When it's chilly outside, what's the first thing you want to do? Crank up the heat! But central heat can make the air in your house even drier. Try setting the thermostat at a cool yet comfortable setting — 68°F to 72°F and grab your favorite blanket for a cuddle session.
- Shorter shower, lower water temp - It may be tempting to take a long, steamy shower, but your skin will be much better served with a 5- to 10-minute lukewarm shower (or bath), as the AAD suggests. You should also avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands if the water causes your skin to turn red, it's too hot. Washing your hands in cooler water appears to be as effective at removing germs as warm water and is less irritating to skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Change up your skincare regimen - During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and apply toners and astringents sparingly, if at all. When your skin is dry and itchy, the AAD recommends you stop using products that contain alcohol in order to help skin retain its natural oils. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face. GLOWBIOTICS suggestion: Probiotic Moisture Rich Replenishing Cream
- Don't forget the sunscreen - On bright winter days, snow reflects the sun's rays, up to 80 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, increasing your risk of exposure. That means whether you're out on the slopes, playing in the snow, or just walking through a parking lot on an errand run, it's just as important to be applying sunscreen in the harsh winter weather as it is in the summer. GLOWBIOTICS suggestion: Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA UVB
With a little extra care your skin can be glowing and radiant year round!