While the winter weather varies from state to state, in some areas of the country, the temps have been pretty unforgiving. Breaking out those heavy puffer coats or warm wool pea coats might seal in the heat, but, sometimes, our skin still takes the brutality of the cold dry weather that is so indicative of late fall and winter.
Beauty magazines all typically weigh in on the best ways to keep skin happy during the colder months...when the thermostat dips to freezing and the dryer air wreaks havoc. While product recommendations may vary, most all beauty media hubs will agree that keeping skin hydrated and moisturized is essential to happy hands and skin.
Ready for your winter skincare survival course? Here are the essential products to have on hand to keep your skin from drying out, cracking and becoming brutalized during the frigid wintry months.
Hands are often exposed during winter. Yes, we have gloves, but we all forget from time to time, and even gloves can't keep all the dryness out. Flu season is often at its most prevalent during the cold months of winter, and that means lots of hand washing...which can strip moisture from skin. Keep hand moisturizer next to kitchen or bathroom sinks as a follow-up to hand washing. It's also a good idea to keep moisturizers in handbags, cars or baby bags for an on-the-go moisture solution.
Lips are sensitive and are prone to weather related cracking and dryness. Use a moisturizing balm to keep lips hydrated and to prevent dryness and irritation. While licking your lips might seem like an easy solution, it makes lip dryness worse !
We can't stop shaving during the winter...even though shaving may irritate the skin even more. Instead, make sure to never dry shave and always keep skin lubricated while shaving. To lock in moisture and help skin stay soft and hydrated, use a good moisturizer (lotion, body butter or oils) after you shave.
Sometimes a basic moisturizer just might not be enough for moisture zapped skin. For a heavy hit of hydration, try thick body butters!
Jessica Alba uses organic body oil as part of her skincare regimen. And some beauty experts rave about oils like coconut oil or argan oil for the face and body. While these oils may add hydration, they might not work for your skin type. Coconut oil also may clog pores , so be careful if you have sensitive skin that is prone to break-outs.
6. Doctor-recommended moisturizers.
If you have psoriasis, acne, eczema or other skin conditions, talk to your doctor for recommendations about the best products to use to keep skin moisturized during the cool winter months. He or she may even be able to prescribe a skincare product that is ideal for your skin.
Winter doesn't have to be your skin's worst nightmare. While the colder temperature and dryer air may make skin prone to crackling irritation, itchiness or irritation, try to keep skin hydrated and moisturized to keep winter dryness and irritation to a minimum. With the right beauty arsenal, your skin will stay happy and moisturize-packed until spring!
About the author:
Naomi Shaw is a freelance journalist residing in sunny Southern California with her husband and three children. She is a work-at-home mom that enjoys writing on fashion, beauty, jewelry, and everything weddings!