Since we’re in the midst of a New York City winter, your skin is probably feeling the effects. Yes, the cold temperatures, the winds, and indoor heat all gang up to stick it to your skin at this time of year. No matter how “normal” our skin, we all feel increased itchiness and irritation during the winter months. And it’s not merely due to that itchy sweater your grandmother gave you for a present! In some people, skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can take warm weather months off and then come itching back in the winter.
So, what can you do other than move to Fiji?
Since removing your unwanted hair and keeping an eye out for your skin is what we’re all about at Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal, here are some tips for helping your skin to cope with the cold.
Change up some things
You may love a hot shower, but in the winter try and make it warmer than hotter. Hot water strips your skin of moisture. You can also put your bar soap away, as body washes are usually less harsh. Apply moisturizer when your skin is still moist after your shower.
Moisturizers are not all the same
People assume moisturizers return water into the skin; they merely slow the natural loss of water, which is accelerated with the dry winter air. And while you may avoid greasy lotions in the humid summer months, in the winter greasy is better, as it fends off the dry air better. Watch it on your face, though, as it can clog your pores.
Don’t discount the sun
It’s easy to assume that the sun has no power during the winter. It’s like Superman after having a kryptonite milkshake, right? Wrong. Winter sun has the added trick of reflecting off of the snow, so it can be like those old reflector mirrors everyone used to sunbathe with in the bad old days. Plus, if you’re running up to Stowe for the weekend, snow reflection + altitude = even stronger UV rays. Apply sunscreen to your exposed areas of your face and ears, even under the chin. Use a lip balm with 15 SPF or higher, too.
Clothing
Most of us have an itchy sweater that is warm. While wool is great for warmth, it also is itchy to the skin of most people. The way around the itchiness? Wear a long sleeve T-shirt underneath the wool sweater. It blocks the direct contact with your skin, plus if you’re indoors and going crazy, you can always take the sweater off and still have the t-shirt.
The winter isn’t easy on our skin here in the city. But with a little thought and planning, you can make it to the buds of spring without going crazy in the meantime.
And don’t forget — winter is a great time to have the team at Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal get rid of that unwanted hair. That way you’ll be ready for swimsuit season when it rolls back around. Contact us for an appointment, (212) 750-2000.
