As the seasons start to shift and temperatures cool down, these changes could have a drastic effect on your skin. Although winter doesn’t officially start until December 21st, you might already be feeling the effects of the changing seasons (especially if you live in the Midwest or Northeast regions of the U.S.) The cooler air combined with harsh wind tends to leave your skin with dry patches and feelings of dullness, redness, and more. It’s not uncommon for many to have to adjust their skincare routines to accommodate for the colder weather.
We listed 5 soothing remedies below for dealing with dry winter skin:
- Switch to heavier facial creams: using a light facial moisturizer may be great in the warmer months, however you may need to switch to a heavier product with hydrating properties during the cooler months. Look for thick emollient creams that are rich in moisture and can help your skin barrier. Another great method for maximum hydration is to layer your skincare products, applying them in the order of thinnest to thickest consistencies.
- Use occlusive products: thick occlusive balms are excellent products to apply as the last step of your nightly skincare routine. These occlusive products create a physical protective skin barrier to help seal in moisture and prevent water loss. Great occlusive products include ingredients such as: lanolin, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly.
- Apply face masks: many different types of face masks that are formulated to suit most skin types are available, whether you prefer using sheet masks, overnight sleeping masks, or even concocting your own homemade mask with natural ingredients. Treating your skin to a weekly hydrating face mask will not only feel relaxing, but will also be great at boosting moisture and rejuvenating your skin.
- Use a humidifier: investing in a humidifier for your home or office may be a great way to restore moisture back to your skin. Humidifiers are devices that add moisture into the air, which tends to be dry and uncomfortable in the winter months due to the cooler air and usage of heating systems. Dry air pulls moisture from its environment – which can include your skin. Using a humidifier while you sleep or placing one at your work desk could help give your skin much needed hydration.
- Keep your body hydrated: drinking water has a plethora of benefits, one of which includes helping your body and skin stay hydrated. Insufficient water consumption may lead to skin dehydration; this dehydration along with dryness in the air can take a toll on your skin. Ways to keep hydrated are remembering to drink a glass of water every few hours and cutting down on your caffeine and alcohol consumption.