With freezing temperatures and thick snow in many areas, it is safe to say that winter has well and truly arrived. However, if you have not yet prepared your skin to deal with the cold weather, now is the time to do so, as this seasonal change can really be tough on the skin.
A Thicker Moisturizer
While a lotion is usually sufficient to moisturize the skin in the high humidity of summer, the dryness of winter means that your skin could really do with a thicker and greasier moisturizer. Moisturizers are formulated to form a thin film over the surface of the skin, to prevent moisture from evaporating, and, with the dry winter air, a thicker moisturizer is necessary as moisture evaporation would be on the rise.
Don’t Neglect Sensitive Areas
There are certain parts of your body that are more susceptible to winter damage than others, in particular your hands and your lips. A hand cream is essential during the winter, as is wearing gloves, although you should start to wear gloves before the weather becomes unbearably cold, as even a small amount of chapping on your hands can quickly be exacerbated. In terms of your lips, a moisture-rich lip balm will help to keep them protected and prevent any cracking.
Shorter Showers
One of the main issues that your skin faces during the winter months is a lack of moisture, meaning that you need to do all that you can to keep the moisture locked into your skin. While a long hot shower may feel extremely satisfying after coming in from the cold, this will only zap your skin of its much-needed moisture. A lukewarm shower, lasting no longer than ten minutes, is the best alternative, but make sure that you apply a layer of moisturizer once you are done, while your skin is still damp.
A Milder Cleaner
While you may have needed a stronger cleanser during the summer months to deal with the excess oil being produced, this should be swapped for a gentler, mild cleanser once winter begins to roll in. If you continue to use a harsh cleanser at this time of the year, your skin is likely to become quite sensitive, as the cleanser will end up stripping it of its natural protective oils. A milk cleanser is ideal for the winter, and you can also look out for ingredients such as cocoa butter, jojoba oil and shea butter, all of which will provide your skin with the nourishment that it needs.
Many people tend to wait until their skin shows signs of distress before seeking out ways in which they can help their skin to cope with the cold weather, but you really should be preparing your skin for this long before the start of the season. From switching to more suitable cleansers and moisturizers, to doing all you can to keep your skin consistently hydrated, these tips will ensure that your skin copes with the seasonal changes as best as it can.
