As the winter weather rolls in, the dry air comes along with it. And just as we swap out our summer clothing for our winter gear, the same habit should apply to our skincare routine. So when you’re ready to tuck those flip flops and shorts away for the season and bring out the boots, consider it time to also follow these best practices for switching up your skincare to prepare for the winter.
How the Winter Weather Affects Our Skin
Before we get into the specs on your routine, it’s helpful to understand why it’s so necessary. We know that the air gets drier during the winter, but many people don’t know just how bad it can get. In some cases, when the temperature dips well below zero, the level of dryness can be comparable to the Sahara Desert. With the combination of intense cold and indoor heating, it’s not hard to see why our skin’s moisture barrier becomes so weak. As a result, this can lead to wrinkles, cracks, and a dull, rough complexion.
Switching Up Your Skincare Routine for Winter:
Use a Cream Based Cleanser
Due to the drier conditions, your skin will benefit from heavier and thicker skin products that help to replenish the lack of moisture. Start by using a cream-based cleanser. These are kinder on your skin and won’t strip away any natural oils as other cleansers can. Opt for a cleanser that can remove impurities while also removing makeup too. This will help speed up your daily routine. If your skin is more sensitive, always choose products that are specifically designed to be non-irritating for sensitive complexions. Some cleansers are infused with essential oils, which can also be beneficial for soothing and replenishing the skin.
Use a Gentle Exfoliation
The combination of dry air inside from the heaters and the harsh cold air outside can wreak havoc on our skin, leaving it dehydrated and flaky with a buildup of dead skin cells. To remove that dead layer of skin, exfoliation is still necessary during the winter months. It helps to replenish your skin by allowing the cleanser and moisturizers to penetrate deeper into the skin. However, it’s important to adjust your routine, so you’re not causing more harm than good. Make sure to switch to a gentle exfoliation product that is formulated with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). These will dissolve the dead skin cells gently without stripping your skin dry. Only exfoliate twice each week.
Use a Hydrating Toner
If you already have dry skin, switch to a hydrating toner containing nourishing ingredients such as natural vitamins and antioxidants. These will tighten your pores while hydrating and soothing inflammation.
Use a Serum
If you haven’t been using a serum, now is the time! These are an essential part of maintaining smooth, healthy-looking skin. Serums are powerful because they’re packed full of hydrating, anti-ageing ingredients that can rejuvenate and balance out your complexion. There is a serum for everything, so look for one that is designed for your specific skin type. In the winter, choose one that contains hyaluronic acid. This helps your skin retain moisture for a deeper level of hydration. Apply your serum before you put on your moisturizer.
Switch from a Light Moisturizer to a Heavier Cream
Come winter, it’s all about swapping out the lighter products for the richer, heavier ones instead. To protect your skin against the onslaught of winter weather, amp up your moisturizing routine by using a richer product that contains fatty acids and ceramides. These help to strengthen your skin’s natural moisture barrier, and they’re typically suited for all skin types, including those with oiler complexions.
Treat yourself and your skin this winter season with a professional skin treatment at the Ottawa Skin Clinic. We offer a wide range of treatments that can help you maintain beautiful-looking skin year-round and feel more confident with your appearance. No matter your skin issue, we have a solution for you. Contact us today to book a consultation with one of our skin care professionals.
