Skin care tips for winter. Winter Skincare Guide: Expert Tips for Healthy, Glowing Skin in Cold Weather
How can you protect your skin from harsh winter conditions. What are the best products and techniques for maintaining skin health during cold months. Why is winter skincare different from other seasons.
Understanding Winter’s Impact on Skin Health
Winter brings unique challenges for skin health. The combination of cold outdoor air and dry indoor heating can significantly impact the skin’s moisture balance and protective barrier. Let’s explore why winter skincare requires special attention:
- Low humidity levels outdoors and indoors strip moisture from the skin
- Cold winds and temperature fluctuations can irritate and damage skin
- Indoor heating systems further reduce air moisture, exacerbating dryness
- UV rays remain a threat, especially when reflected off snow
These factors can lead to dryness, flakiness, itching, and increased sensitivity. In some cases, skin may crack or bleed, particularly in areas prone to dryness like hands, feet, and lips. Understanding these challenges is the first step in developing an effective winter skincare routine.
Essential Winter Skincare Tips from Dermatologists
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian emphasizes the importance of adapting your skincare routine for winter. Here are key tips to maintain healthy skin during colder months:
- Preserve natural skin moisture by limiting hot showers and baths
- Use lukewarm water when cleansing to avoid stripping natural oils
- Pat skin dry gently and apply moisturizer to damp skin
- Switch to richer, oil-based moisturizers for enhanced hydration
- Continue using sunscreen, as UV rays remain active in winter
- Consider overnight deep moisturizing treatments for problem areas
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air
Implementing these tips can help protect your skin from winter’s harsh effects and maintain its health and appearance throughout the season.
Choosing the Right Winter Skincare Products
Selecting appropriate skincare products is crucial for winter skin health. Here’s a guide to choosing the best products for your winter routine:
Cleansers
Opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers that don’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Cleansing balms and soap-free formulas are excellent choices. Avoid cleansers containing harsh ingredients like glycolic or salicylic acid, which can be too drying in winter.
Moisturizers
Switch to oil-based moisturizers that provide a protective barrier and lock in hydration. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin.
Sunscreen
Continue using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. UV rays can be particularly intense when reflected off snow, increasing the risk of sun damage.
Lip Care
Use a nourishing lip balm with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or petroleum jelly to protect and hydrate lips prone to chapping.
By selecting products tailored to winter skin needs, you can effectively combat dryness and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.
The Importance of Hydration in Winter Skincare
Hydration plays a pivotal role in maintaining skin health during winter. Here’s why it’s crucial and how to ensure your skin stays properly hydrated:
- Internal hydration: Increase water intake to help hydrate skin from the inside out
- Humidifiers: Use a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air
- Hydrating serums: Incorporate hyaluronic acid serums into your routine for an extra moisture boost
- Avoid dehydrating substances: Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can contribute to dehydration
Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and keep your complexion looking plump and healthy. Remember, hydrated skin is better equipped to defend against environmental stressors and maintain its natural barrier function.
Addressing Common Winter Skin Concerns
Winter can exacerbate existing skin conditions and create new challenges. Here’s how to address some common winter skin concerns:
Dry, Flaky Skin
Increase moisturizer use and consider incorporating a facial oil into your routine. Gently exfoliate once a week to remove dead skin cells, but be careful not to over-exfoliate, which can worsen dryness.
Chapped Lips
Apply a thick lip balm regularly, especially before bed. Consider using a lip scrub once a week to remove dead skin, followed by a nourishing lip mask.
Eczema Flare-Ups
Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products and consult with a dermatologist for prescription treatments if over-the-counter options aren’t effective.
Redness and Irritation
Look for products containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or colloidal oatmeal. Avoid hot water and harsh exfoliants that can exacerbate irritation.
By addressing these concerns proactively, you can maintain comfortable, healthy skin throughout the winter season.
Winter Skincare Routine: Morning and Night
Adapting your skincare routine for winter is essential. Here’s a suggested routine for both morning and night:
Morning Routine
- Cleanse with a gentle, hydrating cleanser
- Apply a hydrating toner or essence
- Use a vitamin C serum for antioxidant protection
- Apply a rich moisturizer
- Finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen
Evening Routine
- Double cleanse (if wearing makeup) or use a gentle cleanser
- Apply a hydrating toner or essence
- Use a hyaluronic acid serum
- Apply a rich night cream or facial oil
- Use an eye cream
- Consider a overnight lip mask or heavy-duty lip balm
Remember to adjust this routine based on your skin’s specific needs and any existing skin conditions. Consistency is key in maintaining healthy winter skin.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Winter Skin Health
While external skincare is crucial, your diet and lifestyle choices also play a significant role in maintaining healthy skin during winter. Consider the following tips:
- Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, to support skin’s lipid barrier
- Incorporate vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits and bell peppers to boost collagen production
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can dehydrate the skin
- Get enough sleep to allow your skin time to repair and regenerate
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and promote a healthy glow
- Manage stress through techniques like meditation or yoga, as stress can exacerbate skin issues
By adopting a holistic approach to skin health that includes both topical care and lifestyle factors, you can effectively combat winter skin challenges and maintain a radiant complexion.
Advanced Winter Skincare Treatments and Procedures
For those looking to take their winter skincare to the next level, there are several professional treatments and at-home procedures that can be particularly beneficial during the colder months:
Professional Treatments
- Hydrating Facials: These treatments can provide intense moisture and nourishment to dry winter skin
- Chemical Peels: Gentle peels can help remove dead skin cells and improve overall skin texture
- LED Light Therapy: Can help reduce inflammation and promote collagen production
- Microdermabrasion: Helps exfoliate and improve skin texture, but should be done cautiously to avoid over-exfoliation
At-Home Treatments
- Sheet Masks: Use hydrating sheet masks 1-2 times a week for an extra moisture boost
- Overnight Masks: Apply a thick layer of a hydrating overnight mask for intense moisture
- Facial Steaming: Can help open pores and increase hydration, but limit to once a week to avoid drying out the skin
- Facial Massage: Use facial oils or a gua sha tool to improve circulation and promote lymphatic drainage
When considering any advanced treatments, it’s important to consult with a skincare professional to ensure they’re appropriate for your skin type and concerns. Remember that winter skin can be more sensitive, so treatments should be approached with caution.
By incorporating these expert tips, product recommendations, and lifestyle adjustments into your winter skincare routine, you can effectively protect your skin from harsh winter conditions and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion throughout the cold season. Remember that consistency is key, and it may take some time to see results. Be patient with your skin as it adapts to the new season and your updated skincare regimen.
Blog | Keep your skin in top shape through the cold, dry winter
The harsh cold climate and dry indoor air during winter can leave skin in less-than-ideal shape. Use these tips for winter skin care so you can keep your skin healthy moisturized and looking good all season long.
Winter skin care tips
Caring for skin during winter takes just a little extra time and effort because the conditions are rather extreme for our tender protective barrier. Skin gets exposed to the elements: cold air whipping wind sun reflecting off snow. Low humidity is common in colder climates stealing moisture from skin every second of every day. And indoors it’s blasted with dry heat.
It’s no wonder our skin often ends up dry flaky and itchy. And once dryness starts skin can more easily crack and bleed.
These tips will help you prevent that uncomfortable unsightly result and keep your skin healthy and happy through the winter months.
- Keep the moisture you have. The natural oils your skin produces also help protect it and keep it healthy. It’s a good idea to avoid long baths and showers and you shouldn’t wash your body too frequently either. When you do use warm not hot water. After bathing or showering pat dry and moisturize your damp skin.
- Add moisture to your home. To counter the drying effects of indoor heat the Mayo Clinic suggests running a humidifier. You can use a portable or tabletop model or one that integrates with your existing heating system. Moisture in the air will be absorbed by your skin.
- Add moisture from the inside out. Increasing your water intake will help hydrate your skin.
- Don’t forget sunscreen. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the sun isn’t affecting your skin says Bingham Memorial Hospital. The sun reflecting off snow means UV rays are hitting you from additional angles.
- Moisturize your skin thoroughly. Switch to an oil-based moisturizer in the winter; your skin will appreciate it. Consider overnight deep moisturizer treatments which can help particularly dry areas like hands feet elbows knees and lips. Cover with cotton gloves and socks to hold the moisture in all night long.
- Switch your cleanser. It’s a good idea to trade in your current body wash for a more moisturizing hydrating cleanser in winter particularly if your usual choice contains drying ingredients like glycolic or salicylic acid. Tone and moisturize within 30 seconds of finishing cleansing to avoid further dehydration.
- Take extra care. Winter skin is more fragile so if you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis be sure to avoid any irritants or allergens that you know flare your condition.
With a little extra TLC you can have soft smooth radiant skin all winter long.
Revive Spa & Skincare can help you address your concerns with a full menu of facials and other winter skincare treatments.
Your Guide to Winter Skincare: Tips, Products, & More for Winter Skin
The temps are dropping, there’s a chill in the air, and cozy sweater season is in full swing. With all the fun winter brings (like holidays, snow days, and nights by the fire), it also brings dry air and cold weather that can wreak havoc on our skin. If your normally well-behaved complexion has been showing signs of distress—like dullness, dryness, irritation, and more—it may be a sign that your winter skincare routine needs a refresh.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, “Skin loses a lot of moisture into the environment when the air is less humid, such as during the transition from summer to fall.” (This can cause your skin to feel drier than usual.) “Dry skin requires both humectants and emollients that draw in moisture and lock in moisture, respectively,” she adds. Swapping your usual lighter moisturizers for richer formulas, going easy on exfoliation, and using a calming cleanser are just a few ways to prep your skin to handle the season’s harsher weather.
If you’re looking to keep your skin comfy and hydrated all winter long, read on for Dr. Nazarian’s pro winter skincare tips and the best skincare products to help.
About the Expert:
Rachel Nazarian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
1. Switch to a Calming Cleanser
Cleansing is probably the first (and most important) step in your skincare routine. So when you’re scrubbing up to get rid of makeup, dirt, and oils, reach for a formula that treats your skin gently and doesn’t strip away much-needed moisture. Dr. Nazarian says, “People often wash their skin too aggressively—which can strip skin’s natural moisture barrier and lead to drying.” Formulas like cleansing balms and soap-free cleansers are a go-to in winter months to dissolve the day away and hydrate your skin.
Our Pick: FARMACY Whipped Greens Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser. Reset your skin with help from this soap-free foaming cleanser that uses moringa seed extract and moringa water to help purify your pores, papaya enzyme to gently exfoliate, green clay to absorb oil and dirt, and sodium PCA to help keep your skin soft and supple.
2. Add a Toner to Your Routine
No, not like that skin-stripping toner you swiped on religiously in junior high. Winter is not the time for daily clarifying ingredients. Instead, a hydrating toner will serve your winter skin well. These toners are like liquid, lightweird versions of hydrating serums and will help boost your skin’s hydration levels without adding any weight. On your freshly cleansed skin, add a few drops of toner to your palms (or a cotton pad), and press them into your skin. Give it a few seconds to fully sink in, then move on to the rest of your routine.
Our Pick: FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner. This restorative toner was designed with your sensitive skin in mind. It’s made with calming colloidal oatmeal, wild oats, propolis extract, honey, and hyaluronic acid to help soothe, nourish, hydrate, and relieve your stressed-out complexion.
3. Try a Richer Moisturizer
We love the fresh feel of light gel moisturizers during the summer, but winter calls for slightly richer formulas to properly lock in hydration. Look for an intensely hydrating moisturizer in the form of a rich cream or lotion (especially if you have dry skin, which is even more prone to losing natural oils) made with known hydrating heroes, like hyaluronic acid. “A good humectant is hyaluronic acid, which draws water into the skin. Skin barrier-repair creams such as Vaseline contain emollients and can be applied afterward. These help decrease the loss of moisture into the environment over time,” says Dr. Nazarian.
Our Pick: PISTACHE SKINCARE Hydrating Face Moisturizer with Vitamin E uses pistachio oil that’s rich in vitamin E and fatty acids to nourish, protect, and seriously quench your skin. Plus, French soybean lecithin helps enable other ingredients to absorb deeper and minimize moisture loss.
4. Lock in Moisture With an Oil
Facial oils have tons of nourishing benefits, but one of their secret powers is that they can help trap that much-needed moisture in your skin (almost like a less occlusive skin slugging). At night, once you’ve applied the rest of your skincare, including your nighttime moisturizer, press a few drops of your favorite face oil right over top. The only exception to this hydrator hack is on nights when you are using retinol, which might cause unwanted irritation.
Our Pick: DEW OF THE GODS MINI Feels Microdermabrasion Facial Scrub. You don’t need to be rough to exfoliate your skin thanks to this delicate scrub. Featuring silica crystals that bind to rich oat milk and squalane, this helps to gently buff away dead skin cells and dryness without the redness and inflammation.
6. Protect Your Lips, Too
The skin on your lips is pretty thin and loses moisture easily, which can result in dry, flaky, chapped lips. It’s always important to carry a good lip balm with you to rehydrate and protect on the go. Not only do lip balms provide an added physical layer between your lips and the cold, moisture-sucking air, but they also deliver essential nutrients to keep lips moisturized from the inside out. Bonus: You can swipe lip balms onto your cuticles and dry spots in a pinch.
Our Pick: GOLDFADEN MD Fleuressence Native Botanical Cell Oil. This dewy oil is infused with a cocktail of good-for-skin ingredients, like rosehip seed, Kalahari, and baobab oils and Co-Enzyme Q10 to help fade fine lines, reduce the appearance of large pores, soften and plump skin, and protect skin from environmental stressors.
5. Exfoliation Is Key
It may be tempting to skip exfoliators when your skin’s feeling sensitive from exposure to dry, cold air. But exfoliating ensures you’re clearing away any dead skin cells that can flake off and cause dry skin. Plus, they help your moisturizer and other skincare products really soak in. The key is to use a more gentle formula than you would in the summer, and exfoliate less often. “Switch to a gentle exfoliant during the winter season, and consider a product with bakuchiol, rather than a classic retinoid that may be too drying or irritating,” says Dr. Nazarian. We love using scrubs with exfoliating ingredients like glycolic acid, which helps loosen and lift dead skin cells from your skin’s surface to reveal fresh ones beneath.
Our Pick: BALI BALM Lemon and Black Pepper Lip Balm uses peppermint leaf (perfect for the season!) and organic lemon to coat your lips in moisture and give them an effervescent zing.
7. Use a Hydrating Face Mask
As great as a good blackhead or breakout-busting mask can be, some of these formulas can be too harsh and drying in the winter months. Opt for a hydrating cream or sheet mask instead. Look for masks with moisturizing emollients alongside more active hydrating ingredients, like vitamin E and ceramides.
Our Pick: GLOW RECIPE Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask. This mask is made with hydrating ingredients (like hyaluronic acid and amino acid-rich watermelon extract) that soak into your skin while you sleep.
8. Use SPF All Year-Round
We know you’ve heard it, but it’s worth repeating: your skin needs protection from the sun all year long. Just because it’s darker and cloudier out, doesn’t mean your skin can’t get sun damage. “SPFs are still very important because although the temperature drops, there’s still radiation year-round, and even small amounts of radiation can add up to the cumulative damage that leads to skin cancer, wrinkles, pigmentary problems, and aging of skin,” says Dr. Nazarian. So, make sure to apply your favorite broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (bonus points if it’s extra hydrating for winter), and rest easy knowing your skin is safe and protected from those UVA and UVB rays.
Our Pick: FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 uses invisible SPF 30 to help shield your complexion from UV rays, while hyaluronic acid, aloe, and niacinamide help hydrate, fade dark spots, smooth pores, and defend against pollution.
9. Invest in a Humidifier
Believe it or not, the heat in your home (although comfy and cozy) can contribute to your skin feeling dry. Heaters (like air conditioners) can pull moisture from the air. In addition, coming in from cold air into a heated room can cause your skin to feel tight and dry, and lose moisture. Dr. Nazarian says, “You can minimize the potential for dry skin by using a humidifier to add moisturizer into the air during colder and drier months.”
10. Skip Hot Showers
“Use less hot water (hot water removes natural oils more than lukewarm) and keep showers shorter during the dry fall season.” Dr. Nazarian adds that applying one of our holy grail hydrating products, Vaseline, can help. “Apply a small amount to skin immediately after showering to lock in moisture and prevent evaporation of hydration, which is common in the winter months.”
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What happens to the skin of the face in winter?
Skin care in winter, at first glance, is not too different from the beauty routine at any other time of the year: cleansing, moisturizing twice a day. However, it is these standard steps that need to be adapted to seasonal changes that have a strong effect on the skin – unfortunately, a negative one.
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The main threat to the skin in winter is dehydration. In the cold season, it is provoked by several factors at once:
dry air both outdoors and in a heated room;
low temperatures;
temperature differences that the skin feels on itself every time we get from the street to the house and vice versa;
wind, and dry, cold.
All these factors weaken the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier, creating gaps in the stratum corneum through which moisture “leaks”. The skin begins to tighten, it becomes rough, dull, peeling appears, and oily skin against the background of dehydration becomes even more greasy.
Plus, blood vessels react to temperature changes – they expand and contract, this is a natural mechanism of thermoregulation. If they are located close to the surface, and the skin is thin, redness may appear. And facial care in winter should take into account all these factors.
“In winter, the production of the skin’s own lipids (fats) decreases, as a result of which it loses its natural protection and becomes very vulnerable to cold and dry indoor air.”
How to help your skin in winter?
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How to take care of your skin in winter at home?
First of all, winter skin care at home should include two components – moisturizing and protection. As for cleansing, it should be as gentle as possible.
Cleansing
How to wash your face in winter? There are enough options, the main rule is to clean the skin as carefully as possible. For waterless cleansers, it’s simple – keep using milk or micellar water (just don’t forget the tonic!).
For the “classic” wash, which means washing off the product with water, the following formats are suitable for winter:
micellar water;
cleansing oil;
cleansing emulsion;
foam or mousse;
foam gel.
The main requirement is that cleansers should be gentle so as not to violate the skin’s protective barrier.
“It’s worth taking a break from abrasive and foaming cleansers in the winter, especially if your skin is sensitive and prone to dryness.”
Miel-En-Mousse, Lancôme 9 Foam Gel for Make-up Remover and Facial0080
When water is added, the gel turns into an airy foam, the skin becomes clean and soft.
Micellar Facial Cleansing Foam, La Roche-Posay
Light foam gently cleanses sensitive skin of impurities and make-up.
Cleansing + Radiance Rose Water Micellar, Garnier
Micellar water contains a little salicylic acid, which is known for its exfoliating properties, and revitalizing arginine.
Cleansing gel for the face “Absolute tenderness. Rose + Jasmine” for dry and sensitive skin, L’Oréal Paris
The gel lathers well, but it cleanses gently, suitable even for sensitive skin.
Moisturizing
In winter, due to negative environmental factors, the skin retains moisture worse – water begins to evaporate intensively.
“There is an opinion that it is impossible to use a moisturizer in winter, as moisture can freeze and damage the epidermis. But if you give the cream time to absorb – apply it in advance before going out, there will be no problems.
It is necessary that the moisturizer contains both moisturizing ingredients (to saturate skin cells with moisture) and lipid-replenishing ingredients that will help preserve this moisture – squalane, ceramides, vegetable oils.
Ultra Facial Cream, Kiehl’s
Tested in the harshest environments, this champion cream hydrates the skin and, most importantly, helps retain moisture. Contains antarcticin and squalane.
Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, SkinCeuticals
The formula contains a trio of important lipids for the skin – ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids in an optimal ratio of 2:4:2. The cream helps to restore the skin’s protective barrier and prevent dryness, while supporting the skin’s ability to heal itself. Suitable for aging skin. Lipikar Lait, La Roche-Posay
Dry to very dry skin milk for babies, children and adults Lipikar Lait, La Roche-Posay
If the skin becomes noticeably dry in cold weather, this remedy will help restore its former softness and comfort. A complex of protective lipids (cold cream) combined with a high concentration of shea butter, prebiotic thermal water and soothing niacinamide provide the skin with moisturizing care and protection during the long winter.
Nourishing Hyaluronic Aloe Cream for Dry and Sensitive Skin, Garnier Skin Naturals, Garnier
In this cream, the moisturizing power of aloe and hyaluronic acid is complemented by the nourishing and emollient properties of shea butter, which is “friends” with natural oils. pida skin.
Protection and nourishment
Recall that a nourishing cream means a skin care product with a high content of oils. Such a cream as the main care product is needed for owners of dry and very dry skin (and not only in winter).
For other skin types, a rich oil cream and thick balm can be used as a protection if you plan to spend a lot of time in the cold, for example. Another option is to use them at night. In any case, a cream with nourishing properties will come in handy in winter.
Intense care cream to protect very dry skin Nutrilogie 2, Vichy
Nourishment and protection – what dry skin needs in winter. Cream care containing jojoba, apricot and macadamia oils, as well as moisturizing ingredients, perfectly copes with this task and promotes the synthesis of skin’s own lipids. Helps to quickly get rid of the feeling of tightness.
L’Oréal Paris
L’Oréal Paris
L’Oréal Paris
Formulated with rose nutmeg and argan oils, royal jelly and imperata cylindric extract to intensely hydrate and repair facial skin suffering from dryness . The thick melting texture is conducive to massage during the application of the product.
Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream, Kiehl’s
Another honey cream with a thick consistency – suitable for winter skin protection during the daytime, as well as for night recovery.
Complementary care
Complementary skin care for winter stays the same: hydration and protection.
Use hyaluronic acid serums to keep skin hydrated.
In clear sunny weather, if you plan to spend a lot of time outside, you will need a sunscreen that can be applied over the cream.
Foundation will also come in handy: Vichy expert Ekaterina Turubara believes that “in winter it is very useful to use foundation, it acts as clothing that protects the epidermis from cold and wind.”
Do not forget about moisturizing masks.
Include thermal water in your care – it has been proven that as a result of irrigation of the skin with water, the stratum corneum of the epidermis is moistened, which helps to avoid dehydration of the skin during the heating season.
Use cosmetic oil that has a fairly light texture and creates the thinnest protective film on the surface of the skin. It can be applied over day cream or make-up, or mixed with a few drops of foundation.
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Rules for caring for different skin types in winter
General rules for caring for winter have to be adapted to the individual characteristics of the skin, its type and needs.
Sensitive
Such skin easily turns red both from frost and wind, and from temperature changes. The reaction of blood vessels to harsh climatic conditions and the change of “cold-warm” modes is expressed in a feeling of heat, tingling, accompanied by tightness, general discomfort, and sometimes peeling.
According to clinical studies conducted jointly by British and French scientists, the use of products with panthenol and niacinamide effectively prevents redness and dryness in sensitive skin during the winter.
We draw conclusions and look for creams with these ingredients in the composition. Niacinamide, for example, is included in this rich, soothing cream.
Oily
Oily skin has a thicker stratum corneum, which together with sebum forms its own reliable protection, so the risk of getting a pronounced negative reaction to frost and cold is much lower.
The main task of winter care for oily skin is not to overdo it with cleansing and not overdry the skin.
But those with acne suffer more from transepidermal moisture loss in winter than those with normal skin. Researchers attribute this feature to the fact that problem skin suffers from a lack of ceramides in the stratum corneum of the epidermis, which leads to dehydration in the winter season.
In this case, you should pay attention to non-comedogenic products with protective, soothing and restorative properties. For example, for a face concentrate with hemp seed oil for all skin types, including problematic, from Kiehl’s.
Dry
Such skin is completely defenseless against frost, and the risk of discomfort and severe peeling is very high. Features of skin care in winter are the most delicate cleansing and the use of cosmetics with enhanced protective, softening, soothing properties.
Read more about Skin.ru’s favorite winter creams here.
Combination
Combination skin types need to take care of moisturizing and protecting the U-zone, which is more prone to dryness. Spread a light moisturizing gel or your usual cream all over your face, and apply a thicker cream or oil to dry areas.
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Features of winter care for different areas of the face
There are areas on our face that are practically devoid of sebaceous glands and a lipid protective film, which means that the skin itself is not able to withstand aggressive environmental factors.
Lips
To prevent red, chapped, flaky lips from becoming a winter curse, don’t forget to apply a balm before every time you go outside. Do not lick your lips in the cold, and if you have such a habit, always keep a nourishing stick or hygienic lipstick ready.
The area around the eyes
Eyelid skin is 6 times thinner than the skin on the cheeks, therefore, it dehydrates faster.
In conditions of increased dryness of the air in the street and at home, the skin of the eyelids must not only be moistened twice a day, but also protected. In winter, moisturizers with a creamy texture are suitable for these purposes.
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How to Help Your Skin in Winter: Cosmetologist’s Tips
We hope you now have a clear idea of how to properly care for your skin in winter. Here are some more good tips.
Wash your face with warm, almost cool water: hot water degreases the skin, depriving it of its protective layer.
Moisturize your skin from within by drinking enough water.
“In frost and strong winds, it is better to refrain from cosmetic procedures that damage the skin’s protective barrier: acid and laser peeling, dermabrasion,” says Vichy expert Ekaterina Turubara, giving advice on winter skin care. But cleaning the face in winter is not forbidden: frost can stop puffiness after cleaning, only after the procedure you need to apply a protective cream – on the recommendation of the beautician who performed the procedure.
Home humidifier has a beneficial effect on the skin condition.
Foundation is able to perform the function of “clothing”, which protects the epidermis from cold and wind.
Do not use harsh scrubs, reduce the use of clay-based purifying masks to once a week.
Do not remove fat from the diet. It is only necessary to exclude and limit the consumption of hydrolyzed and trans fats contained in fast food and snacks.
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How to care for your skin in winter: expert advice
Beauty blog
Neglecting special skin care in winter is the same as taking the risk of walking without a coat and hat. The idea is bold, but fraught with harmful consequences for health. ELLE learned from the experts how to help your skin make it to spring.
Regina Khabibullina, junior training manager Clarins
Is it really necessary to change your facial care in winter or should you proceed from the type, condition and needs of the skin?
With the change of season, not only the wardrobe and mood change, but also the condition of the skin, regardless of its type. Winter is cold and windy. In such weather, the sebaceous glands produce less subcutaneous fat, and in the dry air of heated rooms, a sharp violation of the hydrolipidic balance of the skin occurs, the protective barrier is broken, and sensitivity is exacerbated. As a result, the skin begins to peel off, redden and give a feeling of discomfort – all these are signs of critical dehydration. In addition to external factors, there is an internal restructuring of the body associated with seasonal hormonal fluctuations, which affects the metabolism in the skin. Such changes are difficult to ignore, so you should reconsider your care program.
1. Smashbox It’s a Wrap! Waterproof MakeUp Remover; 2. 3LAB Healthy Lip Baim; 3. Erborian Doudoune for Hands; 4. Atelier Cologne Bergamote Soleil Hand Cream; 5. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Mains; 6. Chanel Body Excellence; 7. The Body Shop Camomile Cleansing Butter; 8. Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Moisturizes and Quenches Cooling Gel; 9. Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Cream Cachemire; 10. Giorgio Armani Him/Her Lip Balm; 11. Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm; 12. Chanel Hydra Beauty Nutrition Lip Balm
What is the best skin care in winter in the city?
Now the skin needs more gentle cleansing and care, as well as additional beauty products to help restore and maintain its natural balance. What should be the care in the winter? The basic steps of daily care are the same: cleansing, toning, day/night cream. You should change the means themselves, based on the changed needs of the skin.
For winter cleansing of all skin types, it is recommended to use only “mild” products without alcohol. With oily skin during this period, it is better to switch to creams for normal or combination skin, and for normal type, use products for dry skin. You can also enrich your care program with additional products: moisturizing serum, mask, oil. It is important in cold weather not to forget about hand cream and lip balm.
How should care change if you go on vacation to warm countries in winter?
Flights, climate change are stressful for the body in general and for the skin in particular. This means that there are many more reasons for dehydration. There is also a risk of signs of fatigue on the face. Additional products, such as concentrates, will help to avoid troubles and provide a fresh, healthy look to your skin.
Which beauty products should be avoided in cold weather?
Avoid aggressive cleansers, products with a high content of ethyl alcohol, as well as anything that provokes dry skin, including highly mattifying cosmetic products. However, in winter you should not refuse sunscreens: frost is often accompanied by the sun, the ultraviolet rays of which do not lose their activity. Also, when reading recommendations and advice, do not forget about individual characteristics, closely monitor the “mood” of your skin and adjust the care program to suit its needs.
1. Intensive bi-phase Clarins Hydra-Essentiel; 2. Chanel Hydra Beauty Nutrition; 3. Valmont Prime 24 hours; 4. L’Oreal Paris Luxury food; 5. Armani Prima Oil-In-Gel; 6. Lancôme Nutrix Royal; 7. Thalgo Cold Cream Marine 8. Retinol Day Cream; 9. La Bruket Facial Cream Carrot Bergamott; 10. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Deep Moisture Balm; 11. Lancôme Genifique
How do changes in temperature and humidity affect the condition of the skin and how can it be helped?
In the harsh Russian climate, central heating and other troubles, almost everyone experiences the problem of dry skin during the cold season. Temperature fluctuations affect not only our well-being, but also on the skin. Dehydration and peeling can occur due to frosty air outside, as well as dry air in homes that have heating and air conditioning.
Elena Alekseeva, Kiehl’s expert
Which ingredients should be preferred?
Itching may occur due to snow or gusts of wind. Creams containing film-forming substances and antioxidants will come to the rescue. To help the skin cope with dryness, it needs to be moisturized. It is ideal to do this in the evening, after taking a bath or shower, when there is still a lot of moisture in the skin. Any moisturizer with a comfortable texture will do. It is good if it contains natural oils, hyaluronic acid, silicones, a small amount of glycerin or sorbitol. Be careful: with an increase in skin moisture, the likelihood of frostbite increases. Therefore, before going out into the cold, it is not recommended to use intensely moisturizing creams that “lock” water in the skin. I also want to remind you that if the selected product has a gel base, then it must be applied at least an hour before going outside.
Does it make sense to switch to cleansing in winter, removing impurities and make-up only with a micellar solution?
Personally, I don’t really like the idea of cleansing my skin without water. In this case, fat and dirt are not removed well enough, which, sooner or later, can lead to inflammation. Cleansing with micellar water on a daily basis can lead to damage to the protective barrier and irritation, since, in fact, these are surfactants that we leave on the face. Most experts advise rinsing it off with water.
A waterless skin cleansing system (eg with milk) may only be suitable for very dry and sensitive skin, which is uncomfortable with washing and reacts to contact with water with severe redness and irritation.
1. Garnier Micellar Cleansing Gel; 2. Clarins Booster Energy; 3. Chanel Hydra Beauty Radiance Mask; 4.Dr. Pierre Ricaud Eau Miccelaire; 5. Anne Semonin Cream Mask; 6. Erborian Bamboo Waterlock Mask; 7. Erborian Yusa Sorbet Night; 8. Vichy mineral mask; 9. SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Masque; 10. Erborian Bamboo Shot Mask; 11. Dr.Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution Mask; 12. Givenchy Hydra Sparkling Fresh & Fast Masks; 13. Lancôme Energie De Vie Sleeping Mask; 14. SkinCeuticals Ce Ferulic
What does a simple and effective home care system look like in winter?
Ideally, your grooming ritual should consist of at least three products. Firstly, it is a cleanser that does not damage the protective barrier (preferably without alcohol and sulfates). Secondly, a moisturizer with film-forming agents, natural oils and antioxidants. Thirdly, a nightly restorative concentrate type. Also in winter, additional care is required. Moisturizing masks are recommended to be done at least 2-3 times a week, because now the skin is losing a lot of water.
Does the body need special care in winter?
In winter, the skin of the body is under constant cover. On the one hand, she is warm, on the other hand, clothes can become a source of irritation. The skin loses moisture faster, and with it a healthy color. The body skin care algorithm is the same as for the face. But if you take a shower in the morning and in the evening, then do not use shower gel every time – the skin does not need such intensive cleansing.
It would be great if you pay attention to the composition of your body care products. Let there be oils, vitamins and minerals. Use soft scrubs 1-2 times a week. Do not forget about the 3-minute rule: immediately after water procedures, you need to apply a moisturizer, because when the skin is steamed and the pores are enlarged, the conductivity of useful components improves.
1. CND Scentsations Tangerine & Lemongrass Lotion; 2. mi&ko body cream Ginger and body milk Sandalwood; 3. Orly Rich Renewal Pretty; 4. Neutrogena Deep Moisture Body Lotion; 5. Mary Kay timewise body; 6. Herbalife Herbal Aloe; 7. Lush Dream Cream Hand and Body Lotion; 8. Organic Shop Body Desserts Strawberry & Chocolate; 9. Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub; 10. Thermes Marins de Saint Malo Body; 11. Holika Holika Peach Body Lotion; 12. The Body Shop Hawaiian Kukui
Alexey Mironenko, national expert Biotherm
There is an opinion that the cream should be applied half an hour before going outside. Is it so?
When applying the cream, its temperature rises due to rubbing between the fingers and from the temperature of the skin of the face. As a result, the temperatures of the cream and the skin are compared, amounting to 36 degrees. This is an additional mechanism for absorption and activation of the cream. Obviously, at this temperature, the cream cannot freeze. There is little water in it, but there are a lot of moisturizing components (lipids, sugars) that do not freeze. Moreover, special moisturizing products for face care in winter have now been created. The formula with natural oils protects the skin from unpleasant redness in cold windy weather. However, in winter, moisturizer should be applied at least half an hour before going out so that it has time to absorb, act and protect the skin in the cold.
Which care option is more effective: one rich, dense cream or layered light textures?
In winter, it is worth giving preference to richer nourishing textures, but this does not negate the layering. Look at your makeup remover: you might want to use oil in the winter, even if you don’t have dry skin. Also, in winter, most likely, it will be more comfortable with a tonic for dry skin. Great if you are using a serum. Have you tried oil-based serums? They can also be used for combination skin. Of course, your cream in winter should be more nutritious than in summer. Which one – you need to proceed from the needs of the skin.
Maybe just oil is enough?
Winter oil is what the skin needs, but it just isn’t enough. In the vast majority of cases, the skin is dehydrated in winter. This happens for several reasons: heating in the premises, changes in water quality, other food, cold, wind, snow. Don’t forget your moisturizer, even if you think your skin is flawless.
How else can you help your skin in cold weather?
Of course, drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. Green and herbal teas can be great sources of moisture and warmth, as well as skin-friendly antioxidants. The drying effect of heating can be reduced with a humidifier and regular ventilation. In nutrition, one should not forget about seasonal fruits, vegetables, first courses and foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids (fish). Any non-exhausting sports exercises have a positive effect on the condition of the skin in winter.