Colder weather is here, and that means it’s time to break out the sweaters and zip up the boots. But along with the scarves and leggings, we also need to think about changing up our cosmetic routines as temperatures drop.
That might sound a little bit odd at first. Why should the weather matter when it comes to how you treat your skin? As it turns out, different temperatures and weather patterns make a big difference in how your skin acts and what it needs. To combat the issues that can pop up because of winter weather, moisturization is a must—and taking this simple step will save you lots of headaches.
Why Is Winter Hard on Skin?
You may have noticed that your skin seems drier in the winter, and it’s not your mind playing tricks on you. Cold air doesn’t hold water as well as warm air. So, when you’re walking around outside, those blustery days don’t just make you chilly, they also dry out your skin. And being inside isn’t much better. Although you probably run the heater in your home and workplace, these systems don’t do a very good job of introducing moisture into the air. So, the more you run your heater, the more dry air you’re pumping into your house.
What Can Happen If Skin Gets Too Dry?
In addition to being uncomfortable, tight, and itchy, dry skin is more susceptible to unpleasant chapping or redness. It can also crack, which is often painful and has an unappealing look on your face. If you’re already prone to skin conditions like acne or eczema, the dryness of winter can make them worse, according to The Skin Institute.
How Can I Prevent My Skin from Drying Out?
The unfortunate fact is that your summertime moisturizer probably isn’t going to cut it in the winter. We tend to use lighter moisturizers in the summer that are formulated to withstand heat. Instead, you need a moisturizer that can stand up to the cold, dry air; and you need to use it regularly. This will lock in your skin’s natural moisture, keeping it smooth and healthy. Look for heavier lotions or creams than you would in the summer, and make sure that you work the product into your daily and nightly skincare routine for maximum impact. Applying moisturizer once won’t offer you much help.
What Other Kinds Of Products Should I Use?
In addition to a great moisturizer, you can consider serums to help further improve your skin’s condition. Hyaluronic acid is great for retaining moisture and can be found both as an ingredient in some moisturizers and as a separate cream or serum. You can also try moisturizing masks or other leave-on treatments. And, even though it’s not summer anymore, don’t forget the sunscreen. Harmful UV rays are still present in the winter, and it’s crucial to the health of your skin and the rest of your body that you use SPF. Finally, don’t limit your moisturization to your face. The rest of your body, particularly areas that are exposed to the cold, like your hands, will get dry and uncomfortable as well. Make sure you include them in your beauty routine.
These tips won’t help keep you warm on a chilly winter night, but they will definitely keep your skin happy and healthy as the thermometer reaches single digits. With a good, consistent moisturizing routine, you can fend off the worst of winter’s effects on your face and stay bright all season long.
