As the cold weather sets in, the time has come to swap our summer skincare to meet the skincare challenges brought on by winter. By changing up our skincare regimen now, our skin can stay healthy and happy through the winter; ready to shine when another spring season rolls around.
Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do to ensure your skin stays hydrated, protected, and does not suffer too much from the harsh pang of winter.
Cold weather skincare ingredients to look for
As winter skincare demands more nourishment, the lightweight gels and creams we turn to during the summer can no longer cut it–indoor, heated air will cause them to evaporate faster than they can provide benefit, and they don’t provide enough emollient protection for the cold weather. Instead, try to get your hands on natural skincare products that contain some of the following emollient ingredients:
- Argan oil is great for those with dry skin, as it has healing and anti-aging benefits alongside the hydrating power. If you have oily skin, make sure you test a product before adding it to your routine, as oils can cause breakouts.
- Avocado oil has soothing and regenerative properties, and our skin absorbs it easily.
- Jojoba oil is similar to our own sebum, and it has some amazing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also hypoallergenic and contains the vitamins A, E, and D. Jojoba is a fantastic choice for mature skin.
- Shea butter can be used for rashes and eczema, and it’s really effective for adding some extra moisture to your skin during the winter months. It’s great for moisturizing your body as well.
Before you start using any product on a more regular basis, make sure you test it and track how your skin reacts. Introduce products gradually, and only one at a time.
Try a Homemade Facial
As you need to deliver more soothing and moisturizing ingredients to your skin, sometimes the best thing you can do is mix a mask yourself–or teach your clients how to do this at home. Here are some you can try:
- Heavy cream and honey will leave your skin supple and soft. Mix a tablespoon of honey with heavy cream and apply to your face. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse.
- Banana and milk make an excellent combination for dry and patchy skin. Mash a banana in a bowl and add a tablespoon of milk. Apply, leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse.
- Carrot and honey are good for dull and patchy skin. The beta-carotene will help lighten the spots, while honey is great as an anti-inflammatory agent. Peel and puree a carrot and add a tablespoon of honey. Apply and leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Consider the products you use
Now is the time to revamp your skincare shelf (or shelves?).
First, take a look at what you are already using and how many steps your morning and evening routines have. Is there a step you might be looking to add now?
For example, if you don’t normally use an eye cream, autumn is a great time to introduce one, as the sensitive skin around your eyes needs all the help it can get to stay hydrated and protected.
Think about your toner, the face masks you usually use, as well as your exfoliator and cleanser. Try to switch to ones that are more nourishing, less drying, and that will not strip your skin as much.
You should also take this opportunity to check expiration dates and consider how long an item has been open – and throw away anything suspect.
Drink more water
We usually feel more thirst during the summer, as our bodies lose water while sweating in the heat. However, we actually tend to get more dehydrated in the wintertime because we also tend to drink less water.
As you already know, H2O is what keeps your skin looking plump and feeling smooth and soft to the touch. Though it’s not enough to rely solely on drinking water to achieve hydrated skin on the surface, skin cells cannot form and function properly before they rise to the surface without adequate water. No amount of hydrating skincare will be able to help if you don’t hydrate your entire body enough and nourish your skin from the inside.
Get a reusable water bottle to carry around with you and sip throughout the day. You might even want to use an app to remind you that you need to keep hydrating.
Consider heat and humidity levels
If you like to turn up the heat in your home when it gets cold, and if you tend to take very warm or hot showers, you might be doing more damage to your skin than you know. The heat dries your skin out, causing it to crack and peel. Even if it doesn’t get to a visible point, too much heat will make itself felt deep down.
Try turning down the heat. Start with the shower, and keep it pleasantly warm. Turn your home’s heating down as well – especially during the night, when you will also be sweating under your duvet if you make the room too hot.
On top of that, you can invest in a humidifier to keep the moisture in your space at optimal levels, ensuring your skin stays hydrated.
Final thoughts
Cold weather skincare doesn’t have to be difficult, expensive, or complex. You just need to start by understanding your skin’s needs, and listening to the signs it’s giving. If it’s dry, give it more oil and water. If it’s irritated, then maybe it’s time to simplify your regimen. Provide it with enough moisture and nourishment, and it will thank you every day.
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About the author:
Guest author, Sarah Kaminski, is a life enjoyer, positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows. Connect with Sarah on Twitter at @SarahKaminski10.