Is your skin starting to feel tight and dry as winter approaches? Then follow my 5 quick tips below to keep your skin feeling soft and supple this winter season
#1: Use a Humidifier. Low humidity is one of the top causes of dry skin. In the colder months, not only is the outside air dryer, but heaters also emit hot dry air, thus constantly exposing your skin to dry air. That’s why it’s a good idea invest in a humidifier (typically range from $30-$100); this will inject natural moisture into the air to help prevent dry skin. TIP* you can add a few drops of essential oil into your humidifier to enhance the experience and gently scent the air. We like adding organic lavender oil.
#2: Exfoliate. Exfoliating has a number of skin benefits: it will remove any dry, peeling skin, give you fresher, brighter looking skin, and will help your skin care penetrate better. It’s especially important to exfoliate using a gentle exfoliating cleanser twice a week in dry months. Read our article Exfolation 101 here.
#3: Don’t Wash with Hot Water. We know it feels good to shower and wash your face with hot water, but this actually causes your skin to become drier. So, resist the urge and rinse with tepid/lukewarm water. Also, after washing your face, leave it damp and apply your skin care products directly to damp skin.
#4: Consume Essential Fatty Acids – we are big fans of krill oil. Krill oil contains nutrients that can help reduce skin redness and itching and make skin feel softer and more hydrated (and has many other benefits including improving cardiovascular health and mood). In addition, the antioxidants present in krill oil are believed to be effective in fighting the effects of free radicals in the body. This can lead to improved skin texture and a reduction in wrinkles, stronger nails and healthier, thicker hair. Make sure you invest in high quality krill oil, as not all supplements are created equal.
#5: Moisturize! And of course, make sure to use a highly emollient night cream or moisturizer before going to sleep each night and use a sunscreen with moisturizer during the daytime.
Do your lips get chapped in the winter? Read our post on preventing and healing chapped lips.
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