How can you protect your skin during winter. What are the most effective moisturizing techniques. Why should you adjust your cleansing routine in cold weather. Which products are best for combating winter dryness. How does winter affect different skin conditions.

Understanding Winter’s Impact on Skin Health

Winter brings unique challenges to skin health, primarily due to the harsh environmental conditions. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating can significantly impact the skin’s natural barrier function. Dr. Husienzad, a renowned dermatologist, explains that during winter, the production of filaggrin—a crucial protein for maintaining skin moisture—decreases. This reduction, combined with external factors, leads to increased dryness and potential exacerbation of various skin conditions.

How does winter specifically affect the skin? The cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow and nutrient delivery to the skin. Simultaneously, the lack of humidity in both outdoor and indoor environments accelerates moisture loss from the skin’s surface. This combination can result in dryness, flakiness, and increased sensitivity.

The Science Behind Winter Skin Dryness

Understanding the physiological changes in skin during winter is crucial for effective care. The skin’s lipid barrier, which helps retain moisture, becomes compromised in cold, dry conditions. This leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), where moisture evaporates more quickly from the skin’s surface. Additionally, the sebaceous glands, responsible for producing natural oils, become less active in colder temperatures, further contributing to skin dryness.

Common Skin Conditions Exacerbated by Winter

Winter can trigger or worsen several skin conditions. Recognizing these issues is the first step in managing them effectively. Here are five common skin problems that often flare up during the colder months:

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Keratosis Pilaris
• Raynaud’s Disease

Eczema in Winter

Eczema, affecting over 31 million Americans, is characterized by inflamed, red, itchy patches of skin. Why does eczema worsen in winter? The combination of cold air and low humidity disrupts the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens. This increased sensitivity, coupled with the drying effects of indoor heating, can trigger eczema flares.

Managing Psoriasis During Cold Months

Psoriasis, a chronic condition causing red, scaly patches, often becomes more severe in winter. The reduced exposure to sunlight (a natural source of UV light that can help manage psoriasis) and the dry, cold air contribute to this exacerbation. How can psoriasis be managed in winter? Consistent moisturizing, careful use of medicated treatments, and, if recommended by a dermatologist, light therapy can help control symptoms.

Rosacea Flares in Cold Weather

Rosacea, characterized by facial redness and sometimes small, pus-filled bumps, can be particularly troublesome in winter. Cold winds and sudden temperature changes when moving between heated indoors and cold outdoors can trigger flare-ups. Protecting the face from extreme temperatures and using gentle, non-irritating skincare products are key strategies for managing rosacea during winter.

Essential Winter Skincare Strategies

Adapting your skincare routine for winter is crucial for maintaining healthy, comfortable skin. Dr. Husienzad emphasizes that while a complete overhaul isn’t necessary, certain adjustments can make a significant difference. The focus should be on hydration and protection against harsh environmental factors.

Moisturizing Techniques for Winter

Proper moisturizing is the cornerstone of winter skincare. How should you moisturize effectively in winter? Dr. Husienzad recommends using thicker creams rather than lighter lotions. Look for products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum, which help to seal in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.

When should you apply moisturizer for maximum effect? The best time is immediately after bathing or washing your face, while the skin is still damp. This helps to lock in the moisture. For extremely dry areas, consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly over your regular moisturizer at night.

Cleansing Without Stripping the Skin

Cleansing is essential, but it’s crucial to choose the right products and methods to avoid further drying the skin. What type of cleanser is best for winter use? Opt for gentle, hydrating, fragrance-free cleansers. Avoid products that leave your skin feeling tight or “squeaky clean,” as this indicates that natural oils have been stripped away.

How often should you cleanse in winter? For most people, once a day (preferably in the evening) is sufficient. If you need to cleanse twice, consider using only water in the morning and saving your gentle cleanser for the evening routine.

Tailoring Skincare for Different Skin Types

Different skin types require different approaches to winter care. Understanding your skin type and its specific needs is crucial for effective winter skincare.

Winter Care for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin

Contrary to popular belief, even oily and acne-prone skin needs extra care in winter. How can you moisturize without exacerbating acne? Dr. Husienzad recommends using oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which hydrate without adding excess oil.

Should you continue using acne treatments in winter? Yes, but with caution. Many acne treatments can be drying, so it’s important to balance them with adequate hydration. Consider applying a moisturizer over your acne treatment or reducing the frequency of use if excessive dryness occurs.

Caring for Sensitive Skin in Cold Weather

Sensitive skin can become even more reactive in winter. How can you protect sensitive skin from winter irritation? Focus on gentle, fragrance-free products and minimize exposure to harsh environmental factors. Consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air, which can help prevent skin from drying out.

What ingredients should sensitive skin types avoid in winter? Stay away from products containing alcohol, fragrances, and harsh exfoliants. Instead, look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal.

Advanced Winter Skincare Tips and Techniques

Beyond basic moisturizing and cleansing, there are several advanced strategies that can significantly improve skin health during winter months.

The Role of Humidifiers in Winter Skincare

Humidifiers can be a game-changer in winter skincare. How do humidifiers benefit the skin? By adding moisture to the air, they help prevent the skin from drying out. This is particularly beneficial in heated indoor environments, which can be extremely drying to the skin.

Where should you place a humidifier for maximum effect? Ideally, place one in your bedroom and run it while you sleep. This allows your skin to benefit from added moisture during the night when the body’s natural repair processes are most active.

Protective Measures for Outdoor Activities

Protecting your skin while outdoors is crucial in winter. How can you shield your skin from cold winds and low temperatures? Always wear appropriate protective clothing, including gloves, scarves, and hats. For exposed areas like the face, consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a barrier cream to protect against windburn.

Is sunscreen necessary in winter? Absolutely. UV rays can be just as damaging in winter, especially when reflected off snow. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.

Nutrition and Hydration for Healthy Winter Skin

Skincare isn’t just about what you put on your skin; what you put into your body is equally important, especially during winter.

Dietary Considerations for Skin Health

What foods can help maintain healthy skin in winter? Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. These help strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, dark leafy greens, and sweet potatoes can help protect the skin from environmental damage.

How does hydration affect skin health? Drinking adequate water is crucial for maintaining skin hydration from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and consider herbal teas as a warming alternative.

Supplements for Winter Skin Support

Can supplements help improve skin health in winter? While a balanced diet should be the primary focus, certain supplements can support skin health. Vitamin D supplements may be beneficial, especially in regions with limited winter sunlight. Omega-3 supplements can also help if dietary intake is insufficient.

Are there any specific supplements recommended for winter skincare? Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. They may recommend supplements like hyaluronic acid, collagen, or vitamin E, depending on your specific skin needs and overall health.

Professional Treatments for Winter Skin Concerns

In some cases, professional treatments can provide additional support for winter skin health. These treatments, when performed by qualified professionals, can address specific concerns and complement your at-home skincare routine.

Hydrating Facials and Treatments

What professional treatments are beneficial for winter skin? Hydrating facials can provide intense moisture to dry, winter-worn skin. These treatments often include the application of serums rich in hyaluronic acid and other hydrating ingredients, followed by moisturizing masks.

How often should one get professional treatments in winter? The frequency depends on individual skin needs and concerns. For most people, a monthly facial can be beneficial. However, those with specific skin conditions may require more frequent treatments as advised by their dermatologist.

Light Therapy for Winter Skin Health

Can light therapy help with winter skin issues? Yes, certain forms of light therapy can be beneficial, especially for conditions like psoriasis or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which can indirectly affect skin health. LED light therapy, for instance, can help improve skin tone and texture.

Is light therapy safe for all skin types? While generally safe, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist before undergoing any light therapy treatment. They can determine if it’s appropriate for your skin type and condition, and recommend the most suitable type of light therapy.

By implementing these expert-approved winter skincare strategies, you can maintain healthy, comfortable skin throughout the cold months. Remember, consistency is key in skincare, especially during challenging weather conditions. Always consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice, particularly if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.

Winter Skincare Tips – 10 Dermatologist Approved Tips from Dr. Husienzad

Introduction

Cold, dry air can easily irritate your skin. Luckily, there are many ways to combat the causes of dry winter skin and keep your skin smooth and supple all season long.

While this article spells out 10 approved winter skincate tips, and we highly recommend you read the full article, here are the key points we will focus on:

Table of Contents

To keep blustery conditions from bothering your skin, consider implementing these 10 skincare tips recommended by Bryn Mawr Dermatologist, Dr. Husienzad.

What Happens to Your Skin in the Winter?

Filaggrin, one of the most important proteins in our skin for maintaining the barrier function and natural moisturizing factors, decreases during the winter. It also decreases with age and hormonal changes. This combined with the dry cold weather, low humidity, and indoor heating that dehydrates our skin leads to dryness and worsening of skin conditions for many people.

5 Common Winter Skin Issues

Getting on top of skin moisture is one of the key components to maintaining skin health during the winter. Between the cold air, harsh winter winds, and dry indoor heat, it is easy for skin conditions to flare up. Here are five common winter skin issues that may worsen during the wintertime.

1. Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition affecting over 31 million Americans. Characterized by inflamed, red, itchy patches of skin, eczema is caused by a combination of immune system activation, environmental triggers, and stress. Cold dry weather can trigger eczema flares in winter.

2. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a long-term disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches on the skin, which flare up for a few weeks or months before subsiding or going into remission. The most common sites for psoriasis are your knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. While there is no cure for psoriasis, your dermatologist can devise a treatment plan to help you manage your condition. Cold weather and decreased sunlight can cause worsening psoriasis in the winter.

3. Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin condition causing blushing or flushing in your face and eyes. Rosacea may flare up for weeks or months before subsiding or going into remission. If left untreated, rosacea can lead to permanent damage to the skin and eyes. Cold weather is a common trigger for many.

4. Keratosis Pilaris (‘Chicken Skin’)

Keratosis Pilaris, also known as “Chicken Skin,” is a common, harmless skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and tiny bumps on the skin. These skin-colored or reddish bumps can appear on your arms, legs, or buttocks. These are often more pronounced when the skin is dry, such as during wintertime.

5. Raynaud’s Disease

Affecting up to 5 to 10% of Americans, Raynaud’s disease occurs when blood vessels in your fingers and toes spasm in response to cold, stress, or emotional upset. This leads to decreased blood flow, causing your fingers or toes to turn, cold, white, and numb, and can be a bothersome issue during the winter.

Importance of Winter Skin Care

You do not need a major overhaul of your skin care regimen during the colder months. You should, however, focus on more hydrating varieties of your products, and reduce irritating products to combat the dryness that winter inevitably brings.

10 Winter Skincare Tips from Dr. Husienzad

1. Moisturize Frequently

Thick moisturizers containing Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, and Petrolatum will help retain and seal moisture within your skin. Choose thicker creams over lighter lotions — the thicker the moisturizer, the better. A few favorites are CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, and good old-fashioned Vaseline.

2. Switch to Hydrating Cleansers

During the winter months, avoid harsh cleansers on the face. As a rule of thumb, any cleanser that leaves you ‘squeaky clean,’ is stripping the skin of natural moisture. Use gentle, hydrating, fragrance-free cleansers for daily cleansing and to remove makeup. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, BMD Gentle Cleanse, and LaRoche Posay Toleraine Hydrating Cleanser are great options to keep skin hydrated yet clean.

3. Even Acne Prone Skin May Need TLC During the Winter

Use hydrating, oil-free, fragrance-free moisturizers daily and on top of your topical acne medications to help combat excess dryness and peeling. CeraVe Facial Moisturizer, Neutrogena HydroBoost Moisturizer, and BMD Moisture Lux moisturizer are great options for acne-prone skin.

4. Limit Hot Showers

Winter weather brings the desire for long hot showers, but hot water will further dry out your skin. Limit showers to 15 minutes and use lukewarm water to avoid irritating your skin.

5. Avoid Harsh Scrubs and Scented Products

Loofahs, bath mitts, and scrubs can irritate dry skin and lead to eczema flares. Avoid these if you have a history of eczema or dry skin. Use unscented soaps and body washes such as Dove Unscented Bar Soap, Cetaphil Cleanser, or Aveeno Body Wash.

6. Exfoliate for Smooth, Supple Skin

Dry skin will stay dry without light exfoliation. Avoid harsh scrubs and opt for moisturizers with lactic acid such as AmLactin or CeraVe SA, which acts as an exfoliant and a humectant, sloughing off dead skin and drawing moisture into skin simultaneously.

7. You Still Need Sunscreen!

Even though the sun’s UVB rays are not as strong in the winter, UVA rays are still present and can age you. Not to mention, the reflection of the sun’s rays through the clouds and off the snow during shoveling or skiing can cause you to get serious sunburn even if it’s not sunny outside. Remember to wear SPF 30+ every morning and reapply if doing any outdoor winter activities. Use a daily moisturizer with built-in sunscreen every morning such as EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen, LaRoche Posay Mineral Sunscreen Fluid, CeraVe AM Moisturizer with sunscreen, or Neutrogena Daily Defense Moisturizer with SPF.

8.

Limit Alcohol Intake and Hydrate Well

Alcohol during the holidays can dehydrate you. Make sure to limit these beverages and hydrate well with water throughout the day. Humidifiers at night can help regulate the moisture levels in your home and further combat dryness, promoting a dewy complexion.

9. Carry Lip Balm

Keep dry lips from getting chapped and sunburned during winter fun by using a hydrating lip balm with SPF every morning and throughout the day to seal in moisture. Vaseline Lip Therapy, Elta MD Lip Balm with SPF, or Coola Liplux Lip Balm with SPF are great options.

10. Be Aware of Irritating Skincare Products

Be aware of potentially irritating ingredients such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, and vitamin C. You may need to dial back on the potency of these topicals to be able to use them consistently through winter without causing excess irritation. Visit us at Bryn Mawr Dermatology to adjust the strength of your topical regimen as the winter nears to avoid over-drying the skin while still reaping the benefits of these potent anti-aging ingredients.

Winter Skin Care Products by Bryn Mawr Dermatology

• BMD Gentle Cleanse
• BMD Moisture Lux Moisturizer
• Senté Dermal Repair Cream
• Elta MD UV Daily Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
• Elta MD Lip Balm with SPF
• Coola Liplux Lip Balm with SPF

Schedule an Appointment with a Dermatologist Today

If you have a question about winter skin care, please Request an Appointment with one of our dermatologists. During your consultation, a Bryn Mawr dermatologist will evaluate your concerns and determine an ideal treatment plan for your specific case. Our office is beautifully equipped, so you’ll feel at home as soon as you walk in the door

Get started today by calling our dermatology team at (610) 525-7800 or easily book an appointment online. We look forward to caring for you!

Related Content

The Power of PRP and Nutrafol for Men’s Hair Restoration 

Are you looking for ways to restore your hair and regain your confidence? Don’t wait any longer – take the first step towards a hair restoration journey with Bryn Mawr Dermatology.

Book your consultation with Bryn Mawr Dermatology today!

Read More »

Anti-Aging Over 40: Prevention Tips and Treatment Options

Are you over 40 but still interested in maintaining a youthful and radiant appearance? If yes, don’t wait any longer to start implementing a proper skincare routine into your everyday life.

Read More »

Everything You Need to Know About Skin Cancer Prevention

If you enjoy being in the sun but are concerned about skin cancer, read our guide on preventing, detecting, and treating skin cancer.

Read More »

No surgery Needed: Lift and Tighten Your Skin with a EuroThread Lift

Looking for a way to fix sagging or aging skin without a surgery? Try Bryn Mawr Dermatology EuroThread Lift to tone and tighten your skin.

Read More »

Sclerotherapy Treatment: Treating Spider Veins with Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Are you experiencing symptoms of spider veins? Luckily for you, spider veins can be treated with a minimally invasive procedure called Sclerotherapy. Contact us today to book a Sclerotherapy session!

Read More »

Who Says A Leopard Can’t Change Her Spots? Treating Red and Brown Spots with Laser Technology.

Are you looking for an easy way to get rid of stubborn red and brown spots on your skin and achieve a brighter and even-toned complexion? If so, laser therapy treatment is the solution for you.

Read More »

Your winter skin survival kit

Diseases & conditions

• 
  
  Coronavirus Resource Center
  
• 
  
  Acne
  
• 
  
  Eczema
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Psoriasis
  
• 
  
  Rosacea
  
• 
  
  Skin cancer
  
• 
  
  A to Z diseases
  
• 
  
  A to Z videos
  

• DIY acne treatment
• How dermatologists treat
• Skin care: Acne-prone skin
• Causes
• Is it really acne?

• Types & treatments
• Childhood eczema
• Adult eczema
• Insider secrets

• Types of hair loss
• Treatment for hair loss
• Causes of hair loss
• Hair care matters
• Insider secrets

• What is psoriasis
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Skin, hair & nail care
• Triggers
• Insider secrets

• What is rosacea
• Treatment
• Skin care & triggers
• Insider secrets

• Types and treatment
• Find skin cancer
• Prevent skin cancer
• Raise awareness
• Español

Featured

How Natalie cleared her adult acne

Natalie tried many acne products without success. Find out how a board-certified dermatologist helped Natalie see clear skin before her wedding.

JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication

JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know.

Everyday care

• 
  
  Skin care basics
  
• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Injured skin
  
• 
  
  Itchy skin
  
• 
  
  Sun protection
  
• 
  
  Hair & scalp care
  
• 
  
  Nail care secrets
  

• Basic skin care
• Dry, oily skin
• Hair removal
• Tattoos and piercings

• Anti-aging skin care
• For your face
• For your skin routine
• Preventing skin problems

• Bites & stings
• Burns, cuts, & other wounds

• Itch relief
• Poison ivy, oak & sumac
• Rashes

• Shade, clothing, and sunscreen
• Sun damage and your skin
• Aprenda a proteger su piel del sol

• Your hair
• Your scalp

• Nail care basics
• Manicures & pedicures

Featured

Practice Safe Sun

Everyone’s at risk for skin cancer. These dermatologists’ tips tell you how to protect your skin.

Relieve uncontrollably itchy skin

Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief.

Darker Skin Tones

• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Hair care
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Diseases & Conditions
  

• Acne
• Dark spots
• Dry skin
• Light spots
• Razor bumps

• Caring for Black hair
• Scalp psoriasis
• Weaves & extensions

• Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
• Frontal fibrosing alopecia
• Hairstyles that pull can cause hair loss

• Acanthosis nigricans
• Acne keloidalis nuchae
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Keloid scars
• Lupus and your skin
• Sarcoidosis and your skin
• Skin cancer
• Vitiligo
• More diseases & conditions

Featured

Fade dark spots

Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them.

Untreatable razor bumps or acne?

If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help.

Cosmetic treatments

• 
  
  Your safety
  
• 
  
  Age spots & dark marks
  
• 
  
  Cellulite & fat removal
  
• 
  
  Hair removal
  
• 
  
  Scars & stretch marks
  
• 
  
  Wrinkles
  
• 
  
  Younger-looking skin
  

Featured

Laser hair removal

You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one?

Scar treatment

If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.

Botox

It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last.

Public health programs

• 
  
  Skin cancer awareness
  
• 
  
  Free skin cancer screenings
  
• 
  
  Kids’ camp
  
• 
  
  Good Skin Knowledge
  
• 
  
  Shade Structure grants
  
• 
  
  Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™
  
• 
  
  Awareness campaigns
  
• 
  
  Flyers & posters
  
• 
  
  Get involved
  

• Lesson plans and activities
• Community grants

Featured

Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness

Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.

Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use

Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying.

Find a dermatologist

• 
  
  Find a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  What is a dermatologist?
  
• 
  
  FAAD: What it means
  
• 
  
  How to select a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  Telemedicine appointments
  
• 
  
  Prior authorization
  
• 
  
  Dermatologists team up to improve patient care
  

Featured

Find a Dermatologist

You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist that’s right for you.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.

How to take care of your skin in winter?

Contents

Winter Facial Features

Step 1: Cleanse

Step 2: Tone

Step 3: Moisturize and nourish

Step 4: UV protection

90 002 Winter facial tips

Skincare selection

The predominance of frosty and windy weather in winter negatively affects the condition of the skin. In such weather, the sebaceous glands produce less subcutaneous fat, and frequent stay in heated rooms with dry air violates the protective hydrolipidic barrier of the epidermis, exacerbating sensitivity. As a result, the skin on the face begins to turn red, peeling and a feeling of constant discomfort appear, which is the cause of dehydration.

Winter facial features

Sudden changes in temperature negatively affect the skin, reducing its ability to produce elastin and collagen. Small particles of snow, freezing rain, strong gusts of wind can severely injure the unprotected epidermis. As a result, the skin becomes inflamed, dehydrated and flaky. Incorrectly selected care in the cold season only exacerbates the situation, the skin becomes dry and flabby.

The usual scheme of facial skin care in winter does not work, so you need to review cosmetics and choose the appropriate care.

Step 1: Cleaning

It is best to cleanse the skin of the face with mild products with vitamins C and E in the composition, foam or hydrophilic oil. In winter, the skin is already dehydrated, and the use of products with a helium base will draw moisture out of it even more. Wash off any products with warm water, hot water greatly dries the skin. It is also worth abandoning the strong wiping of the face with a towel – the maximum should be light blotting, the best option would be to use disposable towels.

Step 2: Toning

In winter, the skin is in great need of moisture, so this is a reason to start using tonics, even if you have never used them before. Most tonics have a normal pH balance. Before using the product, make sure that it does not contain alcohol and sulfates. The sun at this time of the year is no longer so active, so acid products can be included in the care, but a little bit so that the skin can get used to them. It is worth remembering that acids are contraindicated for those who have very dry or sensitive skin.

Step 3: Moisturize and nourish

At this stage, it is important to review the contents of your locker and choose products that can fully moisturize and nourish the skin. Moreover, nutrition is not just creams with a denser texture, it involves the addition of vitamins in the form of serums, essences and boosters to the diet. The composition of cosmetic products should contain three main vitamins: A (retinol) – is actively used in the beauty field to combat the aging process and acne manifestations; B3 (niacinamide) – also highly effective in combating age-related changes, has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps fight hyperpigmentation; C (a form of ascorbic acid) – an antioxidant that eliminates free radicals, hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone.

To achieve maximum hydration, all these products need to be fixed with emulsions or creams, creating a kind of occlusion.

Step 4: UV Protection

This stage should be given special attention in the winter. The sun’s rays have a very negative effect on the condition of the skin, causing premature aging and wilting. UV radiation can be of two types: UVA and UVB, but each carries destructive properties in the form of photoaging, pigmentation and oxidation of the epidermis.

Sun cream is the final step in skin care, so the texture should be as close as possible to your skin type. The cosmetic market offers a large selection of creams, each of which performs its own functions. You need to apply them 20-30 minutes before going outside, not forgetting to renew every 1.5-2 hours when you are in the active sun.

Winter Facial Tips

• Do not take hot showers. Water above the permissible temperature opens the pores, which leads to loss of moisture. If hot water causes blood to flow to the skin, then cold water directs it to the internal organs, improving blood circulation. You also need to give up a long shower. It is best to give preference to a contrast shower – this will improve the general condition of the body and keep the skin healthy.
• Dress for the weather. No need to give up hats and scarves in winter – cover your face and head from frost. In the room, try to stay away from heaters that dry the skin, it is better to dress warmly. Humidifiers can also be used indoors.
• Stay hydrated and eat right. In winter, we rarely feel thirsty, despite this, you need to drink enough fluids and maintain water balance in the body. If there is not enough fluid in the body, the skin will look dehydrated. On average, you need to consume 2 liters of water per day.
• Peeling. Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your winter skincare routine. It will help cleanse it of dead cells and increase the effectiveness of the cream. In winter, cells are more susceptible to dehydration and death, so it is important to eliminate them in a timely manner and make room for new ones. The scrub should include natural ingredients – fruit seeds, salt, sugar, but you can use them no more than 2 times a week.
• Take care of your lips. Not only the skin of the face, but also the lips need maximum hydration. One of the most common winter problems is chapped lips. Regularly apply a moisturizer or nourisher, such as ghee. It perfectly softens the skin and improves the color.

Skincare selection

The key to beautiful and radiant skin in winter is the right face cream. Creams with a light gel texture used in summer are best put aside until warmer times, giving preference to products with a denser creamy texture. Nourishing creams protect the skin well, preventing sudden temperature changes from -15 ℃ to + 10 ℃ to negatively affect the skin condition. When choosing a cream, it is imperative to study the composition, it is good if it contains components with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamins A and E.

Among the most effective creams, we can single out Anne Semonin Extreme Comfort Cream, which replenishes cells with lost moisture, and La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream with a texture based on caviar extract, which improves skin firmness and elasticity.

For excessively dry and sensitive skin, Nutritic Intense cream from La Roche-Posay or Vichy Nutrilogie is perfect, restoring the skin’s protective barrier. Based on wheat germ, avocado and jojoba, Crema F Santa Maria Novella is a weightless cream that perfectly nourishes the skin.

If the skin has already been exposed to negative factors and is severely depleted, products with a shock dose of vitamins and nutrients will help restore it. Valmont DETO2X Cream will help to cope with redness and peeling, the moisturizing concentrate in Cold Cream Marine Thalgo ampoules will revive dry and dull skin.

Givenchy Hydra Sparkling, Clarins Multi-Active Jour and Biotherm Aquasource Cocoon are barely felt on the skin, but provide an effective effect similar to salon care.

For lovers of delicate care, oils are the best choice. For example, ELEMIS, which contains a whole range of useful elements for the skin – poppy seeds, broccoli, daikon, rice bran. The result of the application will be nourished and healthy skin without dryness.

Cosmetologists of the Desir multidisciplinary clinic will tell you how to take care of your facial skin in winter and select effective products that will keep it healthy in the cold season.

7 rules for skin care in winter. Advice from a dermatologist

Margarita Gecht,
Leading Dermatologist of the Butterfly Children Foundation

In the cold season, skin cells exfoliate more slowly, making the skin texture uneven. This leads to a delay on the skin of sebum (sebum), an increase in the number of bacteria and, as a result, inflammation on the face.

Advertising on RBC www.adv.rbc.ru

Dryness and roughness of the skin in winter is caused by a violation of its water balance due to temperature changes – being in a room with central heating, traveling in transport.

That is why in each of the seasons, including the cold season, you need to adjust your skin care just like changing your wardrobe every few months. Like clothing, skin care products must be chosen thoughtfully, with an understanding of the purpose and system of their use.

There are seven main rules for winter skin care.

1. Use mild exfoliators

It’s reasonable to assume that exfoliating your skin in the winter can make it even drier. There is indeed such a risk, but this does not mean that you should stop using exfoliants during the cold season. Exfoliating the skin is important to carry out all year round – it helps speed up skin regeneration and improves absorbency. In winter, you just need to use less harsh means. This will avoid irritation.

So, instead of a scrub with abrasive particles, use a gommage with spherical synthetic particles or an exfoliating cream containing low concentrations of AHA and BHA acids.

How often to use exfoliants depends on skin type:

• for dry skin, once a week;
• for combination and oily skin – twice a week.

© RUNSTUDIO / Getty

2. Use vitamin C creams and serums

Vitamin C helps keep skin radiant during the colder months. It brightens and firms the skin, stimulates collagen production (which helps skin retain moisture) and helps protect it from external aggressors.

Moreover, it also helps repair damage. For example, during the summer months, the skin is exposed to harmful UV rays, which lead to photodamage and premature aging. Using vitamin C can help reverse this damage, maintain an even skin tone and texture, and enhance its natural radiance.

When choosing products containing vitamin C, pay attention to the Ascorbic acid component in the first ten positions of the composition. Its presence guarantees a concentration of vitamin C that will not irritate the skin (5-10%).

3. Keep your skin constantly moisturized

In winter, add a serum containing high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, azulene and centella asiatica extract to your usual moisturizer. These components will not only be able to penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis and saturate it with moisture, but also restore damaged skin areas.

When choosing a moisturizer, pay attention to the texture. Fluids and emulsions are not suitable for winter, these light moisturizers are ideal for most skin types in summer. At low air temperatures and running central heating, you need to switch to cream. A denser texture will seal moisture in and act as a winter coat for the skin.

© Anna Efetova / Getty

4. Change the texture of your facial cleanser

cream or oil formula.

In winter, the skin produces less sebum, which protects the upper layers of the epidermis from drying out. Therefore, gentle cleansing with milder products will help prevent excessive removal of sebum and preserve the hydro-lipid protective mantle.

Creams, oils, balms and micellar water can still be used for make-up removal during the colder months. These products effectively remove makeup and deeply cleanse pores without disturbing the hydro-lipid oil balance.

What primers, mists, tonics, lotions and micellar water are for

5. Adjust your care for problem skin

For oily and acne-prone skin, reduce the amount of cleansing and mattifying clay masks in winter. Try applying moisturizing masks two to three times a week.

No-rinse moisturizing masks can be used for extra hydration at night. For acne-prone skin, pay attention to the composition – it should not contain paraffin, mineral oil and shea butter.

© Boy_Anupong / Getty

6. Use SPF even when it’s cloudy

It’s important that SPF is an integral part of winter skin care, as UV rays are active at this time of the year. In addition, solar radiation can enter through windows. Sunscreen should be applied daily to the face and other exposed skin areas such as the neck, ears, and hands.

7. Rethink your skin care for lips, hands and body

Body

In cold, uncomfortable weather, you really want to take a hot shower. However, hot water quickly dries out the skin, and if it is not moisturized immediately, it may develop flaking and cracks. Patients with chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or atopic dermatitis, are at risk for their problems to flare up.

Take warm showers with detergents that are oily or thick creamy and do not foam. After a shower, apply a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, wheat germ, vitamin A, urea, ceramides. This will maintain a moisture barrier and prevent dryness.

Hands

The skin on the hands has fewer sebaceous glands than the skin on any other part of the body. This is why moisture is quickly removed from the skin of the hands, increasing the risk of cracking and itching. In winter, 30 minutes before leaving the house, be sure to apply a moisturizer on your hands, and don’t forget to wear gloves when you go outside.

Feet

For moisturizing and retaining moisture in the skin of the feet, choose creams based on glycerin and petroleum jelly.