As the winter season sets in, our skin often falls victim to dryness, dullness, and flakiness brought on by the harsh cold and lack of humidity. That’s when a well-tailored skincare routine becomes an absolute must, addressing the unique needs of our skin during this time. Embrace the winter glow with some extra TLC!
Winter is no doubt an inspiration for the popular winter cold makeup look that’s been circulating social media this winter. The natural rosy cheeks and glowing complexion that often occur during the colder months can actually be easily achieved with the right skincare routine.
Here are some tips to get that winter glow and maintain a radiant complexion throughout the season:
#1 Cleanse Gently:
Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Opt for a gentle cleanser that is free of sulfates and other harsh ingredients. This will help preserve your skin’s natural barrier and prevent excessive drying.
If you are someone that is a little on the oiler side when it comes to your skin, try using a gentle cleanser such as a milk or cream cleanser. This will help to remove any excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
If you are someone that’s a tad dryer, try using a gentle cleanser that has hydrating properties. This will help to cleanse the skin without causing any further drying.
#2 Add A Double Cleanse:
Double cleansing methods are usually a good idea any time and year round. However, epidermal water loss is something that occurs every time we wash our faces, hands, bodies. Consider also adding a double cleansing method such as using a cleansing balm or a cleansing oil can also help to prevent epidermis water loss and leave your skin feeling soft, supple and hydrated.
#3 Moisturize Regularly:
Use a rich, hydrating moisturizer to combat dryness caused by cold weather and indoor heating. Apply it to your face and body after cleansing to lock in moisture.
During the winter, it is crucial to pay extra attention to moisturizing your face. Cold weather and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dullness. To combat this, make sure to use a rich, hydrating moisturizer that will replenish moisture levels and keep your skin looking radiant. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides for maximum hydration.
#4 Exfoliate Gently:
Use a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion underneath. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin. During winter, our skin tends to accumulate more dead skin cells due to the lack of moisture and cold weather.
This can leave our complexion looking dull and flaky. Gentle exfoliation will help get rid of this build-up, leaving your skin smooth and radiant. There are many ways to exfoliate your skin gently, including chemical exfoliants like AHA and BHA, or using a soft-bristled brush. I myself like a good glycolic face wash like this gentle one from Murad.
#5 Use A Brightening Serum:
One way to get a quick winter glow is to use a brightening serum in your winter routine. A brightening serum can help to even out your skin tone and give you a luminous, glowing complexion. Look for serums with vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha arbutin as these ingredients are known for their brightening properties. Apply the serum before your moisturizer for best results. There are also ingredients to look out for that protect your skin from environmental damage.
Using a serum with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients can help protect your skin from these external stressors. Look for ingredients like vitamin E, green tea extract, and resveratrol to boost your skin’s defense mechanisms.
Skin care ingredients that protect skin from environmental pollution
-Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals and protects against UV damage, which can contribute to premature aging and other negative effects on the skin.
-Green Tea Extract: Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract helps protect the skin from pollution and other environmental stressors. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the skin.
-Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide has brightening properties and can help protect the skin from pollution and other environmental irritants. It can also improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
#6 Use Sunscreen:
Even in winter, UV rays can still damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to exposed areas, especially if you’re participating in winter activities or spending time outdoors. This will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging.
Swap out your mattifying sunscreen to one that has a little bit of sheen or iridescent glow to add that boost of radiance in the cold months.
#7 Add An Oil:
As the weather gets cooler, your skin may get drier. To keep your skin hydrated and protected, add an oil-based serum or moisturizer to your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and rosehip oil, which are known for their hydrating and nourishing properties.
Oils act as somewhat of a sealant on top of your moisturizer, locking in all the goodness and preventing moisture loss throughout the day.
#8 Avoid Hot Showers:
Hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Opt for lukewarm water and limit your shower time to prevent excessive moisture loss.
#9 Stay Hydrated:
Keeping that winter glow takes a lot more than just skin care. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. You know, indoor heating and cold weather can really dry out your body, so it’s important to replenish that moisture.
#10 Use a Humidifier:
Indoor heating can reduce the humidity levels in your home, leading to dry skin. Using a humidifier can help add moisture back into the air and prevent excessive dryness.
#11 Protect Your Lips:
Apply a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from chapping and sun damage. Reapply throughout the day, especially before going outside.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s important to pay attention to your skin’s specific needs and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. If you have any specific skin concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist.
During the winter season, don’t let your skin suffer from dryness! Embrace a radiant winter glow by ensuring your skin stays well moisturized. Opt for a luxurious, hydrating moisturizer that deeply nourishes and shields your skin from the unforgiving cold weather. Seek out ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that work their magic to lock in moisture. Your skin deserves the best care, even in the coldest months!
Useful and timely post on caring for skin during these cold months. I personally moisturize more than once sometimes to combat dryness and reply on oiling right after shower to prevent dryness and irritation.