Winter skincare tips. Winter has already started with a vengeance in some parts of the country. I have to admit that it has caught me by total surprise. I spent 13 years or so living in Vancouver, which although it did get winter, it was not the horribly windy and freezing kind.

Then I spent just over 4 years in Poland, where I did go through more of a weather shock, but it was nothing like what I experienced in Ontario. I don’t think I was warm for about 4 months and my skin certainly paid for it.

In the past few weeks, I’ve already noticed itchy, dry spots on my legs, face and hands. My skin feels taught and for the first time in my life my lips are dry. What scares me most is that this is just the beginning of the season and this year, especially, it’s supposed to get even worse.

This year I’m getting ahead of the issue and I refuse to succumb to the evils of winter weather.

WINTER SKINCARE TIPS

Avoid Hot Water. I know, sometimes there’s nothing better than taking a hot shower first thing in the morning but that will only result in drying out your skin even more. Instead, opt for a more lukewarm version of your shower. It might not feel as luxurious but your skin will certainly thank you. Additionally, if you are a baths kind of a person, pour a cup of whole milk into the water. The fats and proteins will help keep your skin extra hydrated.

Moisturize Immediately. In order to lock in the moisture, make sure that you apply a body lotion and face cream right after getting out of the shower. Better yet, switch to a facial oil since it penetrates deeper into your skin. Remember to pat your moisturizer/oil on rather than rubbing it in, for better absorption. Depending on your skin type, it might be the time to switch to an oil based moisturizer from a water based one. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, since winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun. Read, HOW TO USE FACIAL OIL 

Note. When I say moisturize I’m including hands and lips in that!

Check The Ingredients. If you find that your usual soap is irritating, try switching to a gentle fragrance free formula. Also, try spending less time in the shower (if possible).

Invest In A Humidifier. Sometimes just lowering the thermostat is not enough. Give your skin a fighting chance with a humidifier that will help replenish the moisture in the air.

Keep Drinking Water. It seems that many of us decrease our water intake in winter months, probably in favour of warm drinks. While it’s fine to substitute, make sure that you are staying well hydrated. You can always have a cup of warm water with lemon.

Eat Well. Okay, so you should be doing that anyway, but when the weather gets especially nasty, take a second look at what you are eating. Remember, what you eat affects your skin and supplements like flax seed oil or fish oil can only help. Read HOW WHAT YOU EAT AFFECTS YOUR SKIN

Continue the conversation on INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE PLEASE SHARE IT

AND JOIN MY FREE LIBRARY