The winter winds are blowing in all sorts of changes. As winter arrives, we’re looking at a few months of colder temperatures, snow and ice storms, crazy holiday schedules, and — the most fun part of all — some serious skin changes. The colder temperatures outside can cause problems for our skin all on their own, but then we add in the drying effects of running the heater constantly, and there is little reprieve for our skin. In order to combat those effects and help your skin look its best, you’ll need to double-down and make an even more concerted effort to protect and care for your skin during the winter months. Here’s what you need to know about giving your skin the best care possible this winter.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Then Moisturize Some More
Cold weather and artificial heat can make it feel like all of the moisture has been sucked straight out of the air — and out of your skin. During the winter months, it’s a good idea to talk to your skincare team and find a good way to seriously amp up your moisturizing routine. This will likely mean a heavier moisturizer both morning and night, especially on exposed skin like that of your face and hands. And yes, even those with oily or combination skin will likely need a better moisturizer.
You may also want to increase the frequency with which you get facial treatments at your local medical spa. Try the HydraFacial MD for a deep cleansing, hydrating, and moisturizing treatment that can help your facial skin hold up against the winter weather. Just be sure to schedule your facials and other treatments with care so your skin can looks it’s best at all of your upcoming holiday parties. For example, regular chemical peels need a few days of downtime, but a HydraFacial has no downtime, making it a great option for a last-minute treatment!
Exfoliate More, Too
Even with plenty of extra moisturizing, you may notice that your skin looks duller and less youthful thanks to the drying winter winds. Fight those effects by focusing more on exfoliation to slough away all that dry, dead skin. Ask your medical spa team to find the right facial treatments for your skin’s needs as it changes during the winter months. They can also recommend options to help increase your exfoliation at home for brighter, more radiant-looking skin. Also, this is the prime time to ask your licensed esthetician about starting a chemical peel regimen for better, longer lasting results.
Give Your Hands Extra Attention
Even with gloves, the skin on your hands is going to struggle through the winter, just like your facial skin. Gloves will provide a bit of protection, but not enough to counteract the atmospheric effects. Swap out your regular soap for a moisturizing option, and invest in a stronger hand cream to use whenever your hands start feeling dry or rough. The cracking of dry skin can be annoying and even painful, so don’t feel the need to hold back on the hand cream. This is also the time of year to say yes to the additional hand care treatments each time you go in for a manicure. Add on a warm paraffin wax treatment, facial, or massage treatments to further pamper and nourish your skin!
Hydrate More
This bit of advice is two-fold, but, as you might have gathered from the point above, additional moisture is going to be very needed all winter. One of the simplest things you can do to help your skin is to ensure you’re drinking plenty of water every day. If your body isn’t fighting for the moisture it needs, it will be better equipped to help its outer protective layer, the skin.
Another great way to add some additional hydration to your life during the winter months is to invest in a humidifier or two for use when you’re at home. Adding extra humidity to the air will help reduce the drying effects of running the heater and of the cold air outside.
Don’t Forget Whole-Body Care
Just because this is the season that we cover up more, that doesn’t mean the rest of your skin won’t be crying out for some extra love. Increase your lotion use, especially when you’re fresh from the shower or bath to help your skin lock in some of that moisture. This is also a great time of year to schedule regular massages. The pressure and motion of a massage helps to increase blood flow, and the nourishing oils used during the massage can help moisturize and rejuvenate your skin from head to toe.
As we talked about in a past blog, this is also a great time of year to dive into other medical spa treatments like CoolSculpting or laser hair removal. Contact the team at Senara Health and Healing Center & Spa to start giving your skin the care it needs this winter.
