The chilly season is back and now is the time to take extra care of your skin. Lack of nourishment can lead to dull, pale and dry skin. Winter weather affects all skin types. Some basics to keep your skin radiant and glowing:
MOISTURISE
Keep your skin hydrated! The cold winter air pulls moisture from your skin leaving it dry and itchy. Protect the natural oils by using a ceramide-rich cream. Try moisturizers with added vitamin C or vitamin E. For added protection, slip on socks or gloves to help the cream soak in better.
A thermostat might suck in the hydration causing dry air which is bad for your skin, use a humidifier to add the moisture back.
Hydrate
We tend to not feel much thirsty during the cold but our body loses water in so many ways. Keep your body stocked with fluids to avoid the dullness. Health experts recommend drinking at least half a gallon a day.
Sweater itch
Winter skin is fragile, avoid materials that tend to irritate you as they may result in rashes. If you feel itchy, wear a cotton t-shirt underneath or use softer materials such as cashmere or fleece. Prefer lighter fabrics to synthetic ones.
Use lukewarm water
Hot water leaves our skin dry and flaky as it washes away the natural hydrating oils. Use lukewarm water, it helps loosen the dirt and also avoids the irritation. Try cutting down on shower time and temperature too, avoid the long hot tempting showers.
Change your skincare
A light moisturizing lotion might have been sufficient during the sunny summer days but it won’t do any good in the harsh winters. Use heavy rich creams with ingredients such as botanical oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerine, niacinamide and bakuchiol. Though the warm winter sun feels good but the UV rays are still harmful, use a good SPF sunscreen with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Avoid products that contain alcohol as they make your skin dry. Try overnight masks. Layer using a toner, serum and facial oils such as virgin coconut oil or grapeseed oil.
My personal product recommendations:
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Garnier Skin Active Micellar Cleansing Water
Burt’s Bees Hydrating Lip Oil
Necessaire Body Lotion
Forest Essentials Facial Ubtan Multani Mitti
Lakme Skin Gloss Winter Intense Moisturizer