Our skin is extremely sensitive to any kind of change in the atmosphere. This means that when summer starts to turn to fall and then fall to winter, our skin can react, often negatively, to the temperature change. Not only that, but it is often windier in the winter, and that can have an effect on our skin; plus we’ll switch the heating on in our homes, in our offices, even in our vehicles and on public transport. This might make us feel more comfortable, but it’s not good for our skin. Read on to find out how to take care of your skin in winter; it’s not as hard as you might think.
Layer Your Skincare
Layering in the winter is a good idea; wearing clothing in layers helps to keep us warmer, after all. So why not do the same when it comes to your skincare? Your layering system can consist of the following:
- Cleanser
- Toner
- Serum
- Oil
- Cream
- Balm
Use some of each product to give your skin a gorgeous, healthy glow. You can then add your makeup as normal. If you’re not sure how much of each product to use, start with a little and add more if you feel it is necessary.
Don’t Over-Cleanse
If you cleanse too much, you’ll strip all the natural moisture out of your skin, and that’s not a good idea at this time of year. Your skin needs moisture to be healthy and to prevent it from feeling uncomfortable—even painful—in the cold weather.
Some cleansers are harsher than others, and the harsher types are best reserved only for the summer months, and only if your skin isn’t sensitive and can therefore accept what you are giving it. Check the labels to make sure you are picking a product that is suitable for both the time of year and your skin type.
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliating is a requirement all year round, and in the winter it’s no different. You should exfoliate your face and body to remove any dead skin cells and keep yourself looking healthy.
Although you might automatically think of scrubs when it comes to exfoliating, these aren’t actually as effective as topical exfoliants that usually come in liquid form. Whatever you pick, make sure it is acidic enough; the skin’s pH is acidic, so the products that do the best job are going to be acidic too.
Bear in mind, though, that skin can be sensitive too, and if that is the case for you, stay away from acidic products and look for gentle, more natural versions. The result might not be quite as effective, but it will not damage your skin either, so it might be the direction you have to go in.
Don’t Have A Hot Shower
Isn’t the idea of getting into a very hot shower when it’s cold outside a great one? It will give you a cozy feeling and you’ll warm up quickly. Why wouldn’t you want to do that? Well, you might not want to do that because it’s bad for your skin and although it might feel great at the time, the end result is dry, cracked skin.
It’s a much better idea to have a warm shower rather than a hot one. You’ll soon warm up, but you won’t risk any skin damage either.