Tips for Keeping Your Skin Healthy During the Cold Months

For some people, winter is a magical time of the year. While the cold climate brings cozy clothes and holiday cheer, this time of year can also wreak havoc on your skin.

Have you ever wondered why your skin feels dry and even cracks during the winter? It’s because the temperature and low humidity create dry air that takes moisture out of your skin. Don’t worry, though. There are steps you can put in place to keep your skin healthy this winter.

In this article, we highlight tips you can use to keep your skin glowing all season long.

1. Swap Skincare Products

Take a look at the ingredients in your skincare products. Do they include glycolic or salicylic acid? What about sodium chloride? These are drying ingredients that you should probably avoid during the winter. Instead, look for skincare products that will add moisture to your skin.

For example, glycerin, lactic, and hyaluronic acid are products that help draw water to your skin. You can find these ingredients in cleansers, exfoliants, and facial moisturizers. Petroleum jelly is another option that helps reduce the amount of water your skin loses.

Be mindful when swapping your skincare products. While you want to add moisture to your skin, you don’t want to use products not meant for your skin type. Always read the label before you buy.

2. Get Prescription Medication

If you’re prone to acne, you might notice it getting worse during the winter because of the cold weather. If so, consider using products that contain sulfur, azelaic acid, and benzoyl acid. While these ingredients can be harsh for those with sensitive skin, they are ideal for treating mild cases of acne.

If your acne is more severe, consider consulting a doctor to see if you qualify for prescription acne treatment. A few options a doctor might suggest include topicals, retinoids, oral antibiotics, and even birth control.

3. Add More Moisture

During the winter months, it’s a good idea to double down on moisturizer. And the good news is, there are several ways you can do that.

For one, you could moisturize your skin more during the day instead of just after you wash your face at night. Another way to add moisture to your skin is by drinking more water. After all, the more hydrated you are from the inside, the more it’ll show on the outside.

You might even want to bring a humidifier into your room to add more moisture. You should also consider swapping out the moisturizer you’re currently using for a winter-friendly one. Use an oil-based moisturizer that provides long-lasting moisture. Jergens Hydrating Coconut Moisturizer for Dry Skin can help get your skin through the harsh winters.

4. Use an Overnight Treatment

Overnight treatments are a great way to keep your skin from looking and feeling dry. These treatments are meant to work while your body is at rest. You apply them to your skin before you go to bed so they can absorb into your skin while you’re sleeping.

When shopping for overnight treatments, look for moisturizers made specifically for that purpose. For example, Fenty Skin Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream is ideal for those who want to add more moisture to their skin. It’s lightweight and contains hyaluronic acid and aloe to keep skin hydrated all through the night.

5. Don’t Forget Sunscreen

There’s a common misconception that you only need sunscreen in the summer. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Sunscreen is essential every single day. Even during a blizzard, the sun’s UV rays can break through the clouds, reflect on the snow, and damage your skin. So, don’t forget to apply your sunscreen even though it’s cold outside.

Some dermatologists recommend sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. However, if you’re spending more time outdoors, you might want to go higher.

6. Turn Down the Heat

A hot shower at the end of a long day might sound fantastic, especially when it’s cold outside. But heat is drying and can remove moisture from your skin. Now, we’re not suggesting you take cold showers all winter long. Cut back on those steaming hot ones and definitely avoid using hot water to wash/cleanse your face.

It’s also important to note, you want to be careful how you dry your skin once out of the shower. Don’t rub your skin too hard. Instead use a soft towel to pat it dry. After you’re dried off, make sure you moisturize your skin from top to bottom.

7. Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating is when you remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin to create an even complexion. There are many different opinions when it comes to whether or not you should exfoliate your skin. The truth is, exfoliating works well for some people. But it doesn’t work for everyone.

If you have sensitive skin, exfoliating might be a little too rough. The same can be said if you’re prone to acne or have another skin condition. Exfoliating can also remove your skin’s moisture barrier and cause dryness. That’s why it’s important to watch how often you exfoliate and with what products.

We’re not suggesting you stop exfoliating if it’s already part of your skincare routine. After all, if it works, it works. We are, however, suggesting you opt for a gentle exfoliant that won’t break down your moisture barrier. For example, Obagi Clinical Kinetin + Exfoliating Facial Cleansing Gel is a gentle exfoliant. It is hypoallergenic and designed to unclog pores and remove dirt and oil.

Your skin is one of your best accessories, so keep it healthy. The tips above will help maintain your glow, even during these winter months.