Dry air easily irritates skin, but thankfully, there are numerous ways to fight it and keep your skin supple and smooth throughout the year. Here, we’ll offer some skincare suggestions for winter and every other season.
The Most Common Skin Problems
Keeping skin moisturized is key to maintaining its overall health. Between dry air, harsh winds, and the sun’s rays, it’s all too easy to aggravate existing conditions such as those listed below.
- Eczema. Affecting millions of people, eczema is characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed patches. It’s caused by environmental factors, stress, and the immune system but dry and cold weather can trigger it.
- Psoriasis. This chronic disease causes itchy, scaly patches that last for weeks before clearing up, only to come back again.
- Rosacea. A common condition that causes flushing and blushing, rosacea can cause permanent skin and eye damage if left untreated.
It’s not necessary to completely revamp your skincare routine during winter—or any other season. It’s best, however, to focus on hydrating products that combat dryness and irritation. Now, the team at Dynamic Dermatology will offer some professional skin care tips for healthier skin.
Moisturize Often
During the winter, moisturizers with petrolatum, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides will help skin retain moisture. Choose thicker formulas over lighter ones; the thicker the product, the better.
Choose Hydrating Cleansers
No matter the season, it’s best to avoid harsh facial cleansers. Any product that gives a squeaky-clean feeling is also stripping away natural moisture! Instead of scrubs, use hydrating, gentle, non-fragranced products to cleanse skin and remove cosmetics.
Care for Acne-Prone Skin
Choose a fragrance-free, oil-free, and hydrating moisturizer to use each day. By using such products along with a topical acne medication, you’ll fight pimples, peeling, and dryness.
Avoid Hot Showers
While winter may bring a yearning for a long, hot shower, it won’t bring the best out of your skin. If you must have a hot shower, limit it to less than 15 minutes to minimize the risk of skin irritation.
Don’t Use Scented Products and Scrubs
Bath mitts, loofahs, and exfoliating scrubs may further irritate skin that’s already dry. Instead, use unscented body washes and soaps that nourish the skin.
Exfoliate Once a Week
While harsh scrubs are a no-no, it’s still important to exfoliate skin regularly. Be sure to choose moisturizers containing lactic acid. These products exfoliate and moisturize at the same time, removing dead skin cells and helping the skin retain its natural suppleness.
Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Although the sun’s rays aren’t quite as strong during the winter, they’re still there—and they can still cause skin problems. Furthermore, when sunlight reflects through the clouds and off of snowdrifts, it can cause serious sunburn even on a somewhat overcast day. No matter how cloudy it is outside, be sure to wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher each day and reapply it regularly. Choose a product with a built-in moisturizer for the best results.
Hydrate Properly and Minimize Alcohol Consumption
The holidays are a time to eat, drink, and be merry, but all that booze can be very dehydrating. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or the Fourth of July, consider limiting your alcohol consumption and don’t forget to drink water throughout the day. Using a humidifier at night can keep indoor moisture levels under control, combating skin dryness and minimizing irritation.
Use Lip Balm
Keep cracked and dry lips from getting even more chapped by using a moisturizing, SPF-containing lip balm regularly. Your dermatologist can recommend products that hold moisture in and keep your lips dewy and soft.
Choose Products Wisely
When choosing skincare products, look for potential irritants like exfoliating acids, vitamin C, and retinoids. To reduce the risk of skin irritation, it may be necessary to use these products more sparingly or in less potent formulas. Visit our dermatology practice to get recommendations for products that will protect the skin without over-drying.
When Should I Change My Skincare Routine?
Seasons change gradually, and most of us don’t even notice it. As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, though, you’ll need to change it up to continue seeing results. If your skin is already reactive or sensitive, it may be necessary to update your routine more often.
Make an Appointment
Whether your skin is in good health or needs a little extra care, there is help. Learn more about it online or call to book an appointment with a licensed dermatologist in your area.
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