TOP 10 TIPS to Winterize & Revitalize Your Skin

Seasonal weather changes can be unforgiving to our skin.

During the winter months, our skin is exposed to the outdoor elements of wind, cold air, lower humidity, and indoor blasts of dry heat. Through the process of transepidermal water loss, water passes through the outer layer of our skin and evaporates into the air. If left unmanaged, it leads to dull, dry, irritated skin and more prominent fine lines! Damaged skin also increases the likelihood of conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.

There are several steps that we can take as the weather gets colder and dryer to keep our skin hydrated and radiant! Physician Assistant Stephanie Bui-Catuogno at Tru-Skin Dermatology shares her top 10 tips to protect your skin.

1. MOISTURIZE WITH SPF

   Even though we can’t feel the warmth of the sun, it doesn’t mean that your skin isn’t exposed to harmful UV rays. Sun can also reflect off snow which amplifies exposure.

2. KEEP IT COOL

   Avoid long hot baths and showers which will strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use warm water, pat dry and apply thick rich body cream to damp skin to lock in moisture. Also, consider switch to a moisturizing, hydrating face and body cleanser in the wintertime.

3. STAY HYDRATED

   Drink more water to help hydrate your skin from the inside out.

4. OIL-BASED MOISTURIZER

   Think about the ingredients. Oil-based emollients with ceramides will keep your skin moist for a longer period of time than water-based moisturizers. If you have oily skin, use a light moisturizing lotion and avoid heavy moisturizers since pores will become clogged with oil and result in blackheads.

5. EXFOLIATE

   Scrub away to get rid of dead skin cell build up to reveal a brighter, more beautiful you!

6. COVER UP

   Wear gloves to protect your hands from the elements. Dry hands are very difficult to treat. Use petroleum jelly such as Vaseline or Aquaphor with cotton gloves and socks at nighttime for maximum absorption while you’re resting.

7. PUCKER UP

   Wear lip balm with SPF 30 daily to protect your lips from dry, cold air and wrinkle-causing sun damage.

8. HUMIDIFY

   Invest in a humidifier to add moisture to your home or workspace to counteract the drying effects of indoor heat. The moisture in the air will be absorbed by your skin to keep it soft and smooth.

9. MODIFY YOUR SKIN REGIMEN

   Decrease use of skincare products with harsh active ingredients such as acne medications, retinol, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. If you must use these products, use them sparingly, and consider moisturizing before and after use.

10. KNOW YOUR SKIN

    Climate changes often aggravate conditions such acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. Take extra care to avoid any known triggers, irritants or allergens that flare your condition

By paying extra attention to how your body responds to the elements, you can be sure to keep your skin happy and healthy all year round! And of course, the team at Tru-Skin Dermatology is here to help you along the way if you have any questions.