Cold, dry air can leave your skin itchy, red, and irritated. Combat dry winter skin with these expert tips for retaining your skin’s natural moisture.
The cold temperatures during winter can really take a toll on your skin, leaving it dry, itchy and even irritated at times. We must be aware of how climate changes affect us, as we don’t want to accelerate the aging of our skin or end up with a harsh-looking complexion.
To combat these seasonal skin issues, we asked Florida-based board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Bertha Baum to share some tips on keeping our skin healthy during these months. Some of these simple changes to our routine could keep our skin looking fresh and moisturized all year long.
“Taking care of your skin should entail the same commitment as taking care of your teeth” - Dr. Bertha Baum
Scroll down to see the eight simple tips by Dr. Baum to winter-proof your skin and have glowing skin all year round.
© canvaTip #1 - Use a gentle moisturizer
One of my most important recommendations for the winter is to use a gentle cream-based moisturizer to hydrate the body and face, like Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Gel Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for Extra-Dry Skin.
© canvaTip #2 - Make sure it has hyaluronic acid and it’s fragrance-free
Make sure the cream-based moisturizer is fragrance-free and formulated with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to provide extra protection and hydration.
© CanvaTip #3 - Avoid super hot showers
Adding a moisturizing cream right after the shower is great, especially when the skin is still damp to lock in the moisture. Remember, don’t use extremely hot showers since they can strip away your skin’s natural moisture.
© canvaTip #4 - Get a humidifier for overnight hydration
If you want overnight hydration, using a humidifier can help. When you keep the humidity at an ideal level, which should be around 40-60%, this can aid your skin. Also, using creams with prebiotics can help promote the skin microbiome.
© canvaTip #5 - Exfoliate once a week
Remember to exfoliate since it will help remove dead skin and products such as thick creams. By exfoliating once weekly, you can allow the creams to absorb better. Remember to avoid harsh scrubs and scented products too.
© canvaTip #6 - Don’t forget your hair, lips and nails
Hair, lips and nails are forgotten areas that need extra hydration during those cold months, so add moisturizers to them as well. The Hydro Boost Hydrating Clear Lip Sleeping Mask is a great hydrating mask for your lips from Neutrogena.
© canvaTip #7 - Use a sunscreen
Also, remember to limit alcohol intake and hydrate well daily. Last but not least, don’t forget to use sunscreen, even in winter.
© canvaTip #8 - Use retinol as part of your beauty routine
I recommend to continue using retinol as part of your beauty routine throughout the winter, just be sure to always apply a moisturizer, or make sure to select one that will not dry out your skin. An excellent retinol product to consider is Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream, which contains both retinol and hyaluronic acid within the same formula, fighting fine lines and wrinkles while simultaneously hydrating the skin.
If you don’t have a multi-tasking product like this, lean on applying moisturizer before your retinol. You’ll not only prevent your skin from drying out, and it will also keep your skin’s natural barrier feeling hydrated.
