Keep Your Skin Fresh this Winter

A healthy skincare routine can make all the difference, whether you’re prepping your skin for a facelift or keeping it smooth and youthful after a derma peel. The long autumn has given the South a reprieve on dry, red skin, but cold weather is on its way. Protect your skin during the winter with these doctor-recommended skin care tips.

How to Protect Your Skin in Winter

Avoid excessive heat. Small luxuries like a hot shower or bubble bath can leach moisture from the skin. Extreme heat can cause the surface lipid barriers in the skin to break down, drying out the skin. Take warm showers instead of hot showers. It’s also a good idea to refrain from blasting the heat your home or car. Going from the chilly outdoors to a heated interior will shock the skin, causing the same dryness as hot showers.
Invest in a humidifier. You may first notice the dry air because of a sore throat, but it wreaks havoc on your skin, too. Fill a humidifier and keep it running while you’re home. This introduces moisture into the air and keeps your skin from drying out. Change the water periodically to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
Apply moisturizer. Moisturizer should already be part of your morning routine, but it’s twice as important to hydrate your skin in winter. Find a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer and apply it after your morning shower and before you go to bed. Don’t forget to moisturize your hands, elbows, and any dry patches as well.
Stop smoking. Smoking isn’t just bad for your lungs. Medical studies show that smoking leads to dry skin and increased signs of aging. Keep your skin healthy and glowing by kicking the nicotine habit.
Lather up. Most people don’t use sunscreen in the winter, but the sun’s UV rays can do just as much damage when it’s cold outside. Use an SPF of at least 15 on your face and lips to protect your skin during the cooler months. If you don’t want an extra step in your morning routine, find a foundation and lip balm with built-in sunscreen.