The long, hot days of summer are gone, and another cold, dry, and wintery holiday season is ahead. The challenge you now face is preparing for the cold weather while continuing to enjoy that glowing, gorgeous skin when winter hits.
The good news is that it doesn’t take much to care for your skin during the winter. Follow the advice below, and you’ll find just how little time and effort is needed.
Ease up on Exfoliants
Many cleansers and other skin care products contain chemicals that help exfoliate your skin. These can be great for making your skin appear fresher, but since they can also dry out your skin, it’s probably best to tone it down during the winter months. Rather than exfoliating every day, switch to every other day, or even just once or twice a week.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
The best time to apply your moisturizer is while your skin is still a little damp, like after taking a shower or bath. Apply to your face, hands, and the rest of your body in the morning and before going to bed. Not only will this help your body retain its own natural oils, but the moisturizer will also help to protect your skin’s natural barrier to the cold.
Give Your Skin a Treat
After spending time outside in the cold, resist the temptation to hop into the shower and turn up the heat. The hot water will strip your skin of its natural oil protection. Instead, enjoy a long soak in a warm tub, and add something as a treat to the water. This could be baking soda or a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Even better, try olive oil and oatmeal together.
Wear Sunscreen Year-Round
It might come as a surprise to learn that the sun absolutely can damage your skin in the winter. Protect your skin by covering all exposed areas with SPF 30 or higher sunscreen throughout the year. Be sure to take a travel-sized bottle of sunscreen with you wherever you go, especially if you are outdoors with the sun reflecting off the snow all around you.
Eat Right, Stay Hydrated
Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day will help retain your skin’s youthful glow. Also, seek out foods rich in antioxidants, as these are your body’s best natural source. You’ll be pleased to learn that some of the most delicious antioxidant-rich foods include raspberries, blueberries, spinach, nuts, green tea, and dark chocolate. Add walnuts or flax seeds to your salad, and the extra omega-3 fatty acid will instantly boost your skin’s ability to retain moisture.
Get Professional Skincare From the Experts
If you have any questions about protecting your skin during the holiday season, feel free to contact the team that’s passionate about all-inclusive patient care at The Maryland Institute of Plastic Surgery.
Please call our practice at (410) 744-0900 to schedule your consultation. You can also reach out and contact us through our website with questions or to request more information.