Cold and dry
winter months can wreak havoc on your skin. Chapped lips, wind burned
cheeks and itchy, scaly skin are all signs that winter is taking it's
toll.
And
it's not just the exposure to nature's elements - increased
temperatures at home or in public buildings cause uncomfortable
tightness in your skin. Constantly running dehumidifiers and heaters
sap every bit of moisture from the air and increase that negative
impact.
To top it off, your sebaceous (oil)
glands produce less oil during winter months further compounding the
problem. But, don't worry, you don't have to go into hibernation this
winter...we can help.
How You Can Protect Your SkinWe winterize everything - we have jackets, boots, stockings, scarves, gloves, and hats. Your body requires this special clothing to protect it against weather changes and your skin needs a customized regime to provide ample protection from the brutal winter elements.
Here are 6 tips from our team here at Dermacare that will ensure you look your best at this year's Christmas party:
1. Steamy Hot Showers, while delightful when it's cold out, can draw oils and moisture out of your skin. Stick with short warm showers to help retain your skin's essential oils.
2. Don't forget the lip balm! Your lips are delicate and tender and will be the first casualty of dry winter weather. We recommend Jane Iredale brown sugar lip exfoliator. It is made of organic brown sugar with no chemical preservatives or synthetic dyes to worry about... you can eat the sugar right off of your lips!
3. Combat thirsty dry skin with richer daytime and nighttime moisturizers. Consider creams that do not contain alcohol and synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and coloring as these have a tendency to strip the skin of its natural oils. We love the SkinMedica Ultimate Daily Moisturizer because it feels silky smooth and includes a lightweight SPF 20.
4. Use a facial exfoliator to combat the increased build up of dead skin cells which can mimic dry skin and make it difficult to achieve an even foundation application. We recommend Obagi Exfoderm Forte, which is a combination of glycolic and lactic acid that will remove dry skin and clean out congested pores instead of opting for an abrasive at home scrub.
5. Adjust your facial cleaner and try a more gentle, hydrating formula. This can have a big impact during these critical winter months. We recommend Obagi Foaming Gel because it is a non-soap cleanser that still provides ample lathering. Your skin feels clean and fresh, not tight and stripped.
6. Don't forget the sunscreen! The sun can take it's toll during winter months and if you are planning on hitting the slopes or travelling north keep in mind that refracting light from snow is much worse than the beach or pool. We recommend Obagi Healthy Skin Protection SPF 35, which is a light-weight, complete physical block from the UVA & UVB rays.
Don't let Old Man Winter get the best of you of this year! Look your best this holiday season by these incorporating these tips into your winter skincare routine.
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