"Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful...". I know it's a little early to be singing this song. But my skin will disagree and it's not even that cold yet! If you are anything like me winter wreaks havoc on your skin. Leaving you feeling dry, itchy and irritated (physically and emotionally). Cleansing your skin and applying moisturizers this time of year now stings and nothing seems to keep those little flakes at bay that are now sprinkled across your chin and nose. There are steps you can take to prepare your skin for the winter months ahead. Just like getting your car or home ready for winter. I have compiled a list of tips you can use to "winterize your skin".
* Change out your foaming cleanser for a cream based one. Foam cleansers can be too harsh on dry/ sensitized skins in the winter. They tend to strip the essential natural oils on the surface of the skin making it even dryer.
* Switch to a heavier moisturizer. Look for one that is oil based versus water based it will help lock in moisture. You may want to also add a concentrated serum. They absorb quickly into the skin and can pack quite a punch.Look for one that has hyaluronic acid which is super hydrating and is found naturally in your own skin. During the day you might want to look for a moisturizer that contains some silicone's to create a barrier against the environment or start using a primer under your makeup.
* Don't forget your kisser! There may be mistletoe in your future. Stock up on some good oil based lip balms. If they do become chapped gently exfoliate them with some warm water and a soft bristled tooth brush.
* No hot showers!!! I can not stress this enough. I know a few of you are wimpering and the defiant among you will not even heed this advice. Not only does it dialate the blood vessels leaving you with the ever-pink cheeks, but it actually depletes the moisture in your skin which is one of the causes of all this dry itchiness. The heat from the water further aggravates an already irritated skin. Apply a moisturizer liberally and immediately after your lukewarm shower. I prefer a natural oil for my body like coconut, it's super hydrating and I smell like a toasted macaroon!
* Dust off the humidifier that you bought years ago and only used once when you had that sinus thing. The heater plus that roaring fire, while keeping you nice and toasty inside has sucked all the moisture out of your house and also your skin. So plug that puppy in and do your face a favor.
* Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. It's easy to remember the water bottle in the middle of summer when the temperature is reaching triple digits. We forget to stay hydrated in the cooler months when your teeth start to chatter.
* Sunscreen is a must year round. I see just as many if not more sunburnt noses in the fall and winter because people don't think they need sun protection because they aren't on a beach. Trust me the sun is still out there in the fall and winter.
So by making a few tweaks to your routine your skin will be healthy, hydrated and glowing. Just in time to sip cocoa in front of the fire while singing carols,"..... and since we've no place to go, Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!"
Cate Campbell, esthetician
Lotus Wellness Boutique