Every year the arrival of cold weather puts your skin to the real test. Chapped lips, irritation, itchy rash, dryness — these are only a few of the problems we face in winter. Fortunately, there are ways you can help your skin during this period.
Watch what you drink
RULE 1
Drinking water is important in any season of the year, but in winter it’s truly vital. Cold air can hold less moisture compared to warm air. That’s why cool weather dehydrates your skin more quickly, making it appear dry and contributing to the development of wrinkles and acne. Drinking plenty of plain water will prevent this from happening.
Enjoying a cup of warm green tea in the morning and in the evening carries a number of benefits as well. The antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea make it a great remedy for many skin problems including acne, irritation, dark spots, and wrinkles.
Herbal tea, ginger tea, and lemon water are also great choices to stay hydrated in winter, whereas coffee, alcohol, and sugary drinks contribute to water loss in the body and should be consumed in moderation.
Watch what you eat
RULE 2
Maintaining a healthy diet is another way to help your skin in winter. Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables will give you extra hydration and nutrients. Choose foods that are rich in vitamins A, E, and C such as spinach, almonds, and avocados. Broccoli, potatoes, lettuce, pumpkin, carrots, and dark chocolate can also be a great addition to your winter diet as they are high in antioxidants and provide protection from UV rays.
SPF
RULE 3
We tend to associate sun damage with the summer months. However, protecting your skin from harmful UV exposure is vital throughout the year, especially if you live in a snowy area. Have you noticed that sun damage is always worse when you’re near the water? That’s because the water surface can reflect sunlight and it adds to your overall UV exposure. It’s the same thing with snow. Studies show that snowy surfaces can reflect up to 94% of UV rays. That’s why wearing sunscreen with an SPF level 50 or higher is a must in winter. Not only it prevents premature aging and helps you maintain an even complexion, but it also lowers your risks of getting skin cancer.
Turn on your humidifier
RULE 4
Cold temperatures in winter make the air outside dry and harsh, which, in turn, causes havoc to our skin. While we cannot control the humidity level outdoors, we can surely do it indoors by turning on our humidifiers.
Dehydrated skin loses its protective barrier, which makes it susceptible to bacteria, dirt, and other harmful effects of the environment. Humidifiers will help your skin stay hydrated and keep this barrier intact. This is especially important if you’re using heaters and electric furnaces since they contribute considerably to the dryness of the air in your home.
Tweak your skincare routine, but not too much
RULE 5
As the cold creeps in, it is necessary to tweak your beauty routine to accommodate the harsher environment our skin is exposed to. You shouldn’t, however, modify it too much. A drastic switch can actually do more harm than good and shock your skin. Stick to the year-round favorite products with a few changes here and there. Pay more attention to hydration, soothing, and protection. For example, switch your light moisturizer to a richer cream, and swap your foam cleanser for a cream-based one.
