With cooler temperatures and the winter months full of events and fun, it is a time to think of skincare. Cold temperatures have a drying effect on the skin, especially in areas where the skin is exposed, leaving skin irritated, itchy or red. On the other hand, indoor temperatures that are heated can also take moisture from the skin, leaving it dry. Add to this, sitting by a warming fireplace can further dry your skin, lessening the natural oils. However, Youthful Reflections wants you to know that there are a few tips that you can follow that will help keep your skin looking its best, especially during the winter months.
1. Lower the thermostat
Even though it is cold outside, you do not need to crank up the heat, which will dry your skin. Keep temperatures at a recommended 68°F to 72°F, according to Everyday Health.
2. Buy a humidifier to add moisture
Place a humidifier in the room where you spend most of your time, especially in the bedroom, will add moisture to the air and help keep your skin at maximum hydration.
3. Avoid excessively hot showers
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, (ADD), you should be taking showers that are lukewarm, instead of hot. Limit time to five to ten minutes. When you leave the shower blot your face, rather than rub it. Put moisturizer on as soon as you dry off.
You should be using a gentle and fragrance-free cleanser and not fully lathering it. Use enough soap to cleanse and remove dirt and oil, but not an excessive amount. Because common bar soaps often contain fragrances and irritating ingredients, opt for those that are fragrance-free.
4. Use cream-based moisturizers during the winter months
Toners and astringents, which dry the skin with alcohol, should be used sparingly or not at all during the winter months. During night time hours, use a rich moisturizer to add even more moisture to your skin. If you do experience skin that is dry or itchy, the ADD recommends to decease using any products that contain fragrances or alcohol to allow your skin to retain its natural oils.
As far as lips are concerned, use a moisturizing balm that can heal dry cracked lips and prevent chapping. If stinging occurs, change products, as recommended by the ADD.
5. Use sunscreen during the winter
Snow reflects sunshine and increases your cancer risk as well as making skin dryer. If you’re playing, taking your pet for a walk or out on the ski slopes, it is important to apply a moisturizing and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Even on cloudy days, UV rays are still present, so sunscreen should be applied.
6. Stay hydrated and eat right
Omega 3 and Omega 6 in supplements or in foods can often help very dry skin, according to the Denver Skin Clinic. Additionally, drink plenty of water (or hot tea) during the colder months. However, moisturizing skin from the outside with the help of cream moisturizers is an important step to take.
7. Change out of wet clothes quickly
Wet clothing can further irritate skin and cause itching. Gloves, socks and pants can become wet from snow play or rain. Remove the wet clothing as soon as it is convenient to avoid skin damage and itching.
If dry skin persists during the winter months, you may need a prescription moisturizer. Try these tips, adding them to your usual skincare routine, and you may have moist and beautiful skin even during the winter months.
The staff at Youthful Reflections and Dr. Boggess want you to enjoy the months of winter and look your best when the temperatures dip. We can help you maintain or become the most beautiful you. Our services and customized attention make Youthful Reflections the choice of beautiful Nashville.
In addition to skincare, we offer the following services:
Face Procedures
- Facelift
- Browlift
- Upper Eyelid Lift/ Lower Eyelid Lift
- Chin and Cheek Implants
- Fat Transfer
- Fractional CO2 Laser Resurfacing
Non- Surgical Face Procedures
- Fillers and Injectables
- Peri-Oral Rejuvenation
- ZO 3-Step Peel
- Renew Procedure & Liquid Lift
Give us a call to schedule an appointment or consultation today.
Individual results may vary; not all individuals are the same.
