17 Expert-Approved Skincare Tips To Add Into Your Routine If You Want Hydrated, Dewy Skin And Soft Lips This Winter
BuzzFeed
·9 min read
It's only January but I already find myself complaining about my dry cheeks and how chapped my lips are, which leaves me wondering what I can do to look like a glazed donut from head to toe. That's the goal, right?
Before I dive in, it's important to know what the harsh cold actually does to the skin.
"The top layer of our skin, our stratum corneum, consists of lipids, cholesterol and ceramides. The stratum corneum takes a beating in the cold weather from low humidity, wind, and dry heat resulting in changes in our barrier," said Dr. Diane Madfes, MD.
"With a compromised skin barrier, our skin is unable to retain hydration and protect against UV rays, pollution, and toxins. As a result, our skin could appear dull, flaky, and red," Madfes told BuzzFeed.
With that being said, here are some expert-approved advice on how to care for your face, body, hands, and lips during the winter.
Face:
Try to avoid moisturizers that have certain oils in them.
Know your skin type before you try the "slugging" trend.
Switch to a water-based or creamy cleanser for soft, hydrated skin.
Continue to include SPF in your skincare routine.
Use cooler water when washing your face in the sink or in the shower.
Be careful with how often you use anti-aging products in the winter, too.
Retinol is a holy grail product used by many who want to enhance cell turnover, promote collagen production, even out hyperpigmentation, and more. However, some of the side effects of this intense product includes dryness, burning, irritation, and skin peeling.
"Scale back on evenings you utilize retinoids, as well as the amount you apply to your skin. Using a smaller amount can decrease irritation you may be experiencing from the weather or your heated home," said Hanek.
"I do not recommend completely cutting an anti-aging product out of your routine [since] it amps up cell turnover. In doing this you’re allowing better product penetration to ensure proper hydration since your hydrating products aren’t working through the dead barrier. Always be sure to layer a soothing, hydrating moisturizer on top of your retinol in the winter," she said.
When deciding on a new winter moisturizer, opt for one with a specific combination of ingredients.
Run a humidifier at night to help your skin retain moisture while you sleep.
Pat in a face oil as the final step in your skincare routine for extra hydration.
Certain exfoliators can do more damage than good during the cold months — so avoid those.
Body, hands, and lips:
Look for body lotions that have key hydrating ingredients.
"Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and glycerin are great ingredients that hydrate the skin. Petrolatum — think: Vaseline and Aquaphor — also creates a protective coating on the skin, locking in moisture," said Peredo.
"You should stay clear of body lotions that have fragrances or parabens as those can irritate skin and cause further dryness and irritation. Also avoid anything that is alcohol-based because it could be very drying and irritating," she said.
Exfoliate your body a few times a week.
Use cream-based body washes that won't strip the skin.
Add raw honey to your body wash to soothe dry skin.
Lock in hydration with the "soak and seal" method.
Keep your lips hydrated by using lip balms that have ingredients such as beeswax.
"A good hand cream is imperative and needs to have both protective molecules acting as barrier replenishers as well as humectants to be able to bind and hold water inside the epidermis," said Dr. Luigi L. Polla.
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