Baby it’s cold outside

Most of the country has traded flip flops and tank tops for boots and sweaters and as the weather has changed, so should your skin care routine.

The culprit that changes everything is the level of moisture in the air. Cold, windy weather and indoor heating certainly do a number on your skin.  Personally, my skin loves humidity and when the temperatures drop all kinds of nastiness happens to my skin and hair. It seems no matter how much I moisturize, my skin is itchy. I’ve been experimenting with some different lotions and potions and have some suggestions for y’all.

Flaky, dry and dull skin is not attractive and to combat the winter woes along with maintaining a healthy complexion consider these steps.

• Cleanse – swap out soaps and other cleansers that strip your skin of moisture and opt for cleansing oils or creams.  For the face, try Murad Environmental Shield is infused with vitamin C and doesn’t dry out the skin. Another excellent option is AHC Aqualuronic is a moisturizing foaming cleanser that is gentle and perfect for winter skin. For the body,  CeraVe Hydrating Wash comes up as the top pick for dry skin and can be found on Amazon or at your local drug store.

• Use a humidifier – Again, humidity is main factor that affects your skin’s moisture levels. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and is an environmental protector. I recently purchased the Vicks Cool Mist humidifier. It doesn’t require filters and has the added feature of VapoPads that add an extra layer of comfort to the air.
• Avoid “hot” showers and baths – Nothing feels better than a hot bath or shower on a cold winter night, but it can dry out your skin. Hot water strips away your skin’s natural oils, so use warm instead. Or if you must have a hot shower, just cut down on the time and apply moisturizer immediately after toweling off while your skin is still damp.
• Layer moisturizers and opt for creams, body butters and oils vs regular lotion. Look for emollients that include hyaluronic acid, shea butter and dimethicone. I’ve done some research and tried out many of the top ranked and am currently using Eucerin Skin Calming Cream (vs. lotion). Traditionally, I’ve used Bath and Body Works’ body butters and creams.  You just can’t beat some of their scents. During the dry, winter months, I layer the Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Cream on top. The scent makes me feel like I just left the spa.

• Facial Moisturizers – I moisturize my face year round and mix up what I use depending on the demands pf my skin and the weather. They penetrate deeper and deliver active ingredients to the skin.

Currently, I use No. 7 ‘s Lift and Luminate (night cream, day cream with 30 SPF and facial serum. ) Try to look for serums that include antioxidants like vitamin C, anti-inflammatories like zinc and aloe vera and hydrators ceramides, amino acids and fatty acids. You can find No.7 on Amazon, but I recommend signing up for their VIP newsletter list and receive 20% or simply visit your local drug store for deals. I just lucked up on a buy one, get one free at my local Walgreens.

The Body Shop is my go to for their Vitamin C line of skin care. The two products I absolutely love are the Vitamin C Instant Smoother. It’s like silk sunshine in a bottle. The other is the Vitamin C Boosting Moisturizer.

• Don’t forget eyes and lips – The skin in these areas is thinner and need extra protection, so slather on the Chapstick or moisturizer.
• Exfoliate (lightly) which removes dead layers of skin and other impurities. It also stimulates the skin and supports blood circulation. I just had some dermaplaning and a chemical peel done. If you are interested, I went on Groupon and found a great deal.  Normally you have a year within which to use your voucher. It’s a great way to try out some services you’ve been curious about with committing too much of your hard earned cash.

• Hydrate from the inside – You already know to drink plenty of water, but you can also add in healthy oils and fats that aid in keeping skin supple and winkle free. Foods to include are coconut oil, avocado, flaxseed oil and antioxidant rich foods like berries, dark green vegetables and nuts.
• Use sunscreen – Yes, even in the winter. The sun and ice reflect sunlight intensifying the rays. The ozone layer is actually thinnest in winter, so don’t forget the SPF.
• Cover up – listen to what your mom said and wear a hat, scarf and gloves. Your skin will be happier for it.