7 Ways to Protect Your Skin this Winter

Got dry skin? Do you find the cold wreaks havoc on your complexion? You aren’t alone!

This winter, you can put your skin health first and pro-actively look for ways to limit the winter’s harsh winds and cold. After all, your skin health matters. In fact, your skin is the first line of defense against disease and foreign entities.

So, how can you protect your skin during the colder months? Let’s start with the root of the problem.

What Does Cold Weather Do to Your Skin?

If your skin is already aggravated, cracking, or inflamed, it’s no secret that the cold weather can exacerbate this. As well as the change in temperatures as you move from the indoors to outdoors and vice versa.

In particular, individuals with acne, psoriasis, and eczema find the winter months cause increased irritation and problems for their already problematic skin.

When it comes down to it, the cold weather dries out the skin and it’s not limited to just those with preexisting skin problems. Even the average person may find that their lips are more chapped or their skin may feel scaly.

Why Does My Skin Break Out During the Winter?

When cold air touches your skin, your pores tighten up. Your body reduces blood circulation to the area affected by the cold. In turn, the naturally-occurring oil, sebum, that keeps your skin moisturized and protected is greatly reduced. This creates flaking and cracking in the skin.

For acne conditions, this can create further problems. Without sebum, bacteria is able to get into your skin’s pores faster and easier. This is why many individuals with acne may experience increased outbreaks in the winter months.

So… what skin health help can we offer? We’ve got 7 tips and tricks to protect your skin this winter.

How to Protect Your Skin in Cold Weather

1. Avoid Scratchy Materials Close to Your Face

Have you got a neck warmer that you find after wearing it your skin is much more irritated? Throw it in the garbage.

Steer clear from wearing wool sweaters that encompass your neck and are near your face. These types of materials can cause more irritation and inflammation than just what the cold weather is bringing in.

You’ll also want to stay away from irritating fabric softeners or detergents, especially when used on clothing that comes in contact with your face or directly with your skin. Again, these may irritate it more. Go for hypo-allergenic varieties instead!

2. Cover Up!

At the same time as being conscious about the type of material you should wear and how you clean it. You should also ensure you’re properly covered up when heading out into the cold. Exposed skin can be susceptible to windburn or other winter rashes.

3. Swap Your Summer Skincare Products for Winter Ones

With different weather comes a different skincare regime, your skin routine should change with the seasons. Put those summer exfoliators and moisturizers away for now, go for products with glycolic acid, aloe vera, and urea. These types of products are super beneficial for dry skin.

You’ll also want to up your moisturizing game. Grab a thicker or heavier moisturizer to help protect your skin. Be wary: you may break out at first but your skin should adjust. Give it a few weeks before making up your mind on any particular new product.

Make sure to test out any new skincare product on a small area of your wrist to check for reactions. You can also consider using mineral-based skincare products. For more info, check out this article here.

4. Don’t Forget Sunscreen!

Huh? But sunscreen is for the summer, isn’t it?

Think again! Sunscreen is also for winter use. The sun can be just as harmful in the winter as it is in the summer. Plus, the sun glare off of the snow and ice can also create problems. If you plan on being outside for longer than a few minutes, make sure to apply it!

Also for us skiers, this helps us avoid google or hat tan lines/ burns! It’s so not worth it.

5. Bring Hand Moisturizer With You

Dry hands are straight-up uncomfortable and they easily become cracked in between the fingers and on the palms.

Every time you wash your hands, apply a heavy moisturizer afterward. Bring a small hand moisturizer with you wherever you go or leave one next to the sink that you use the most so that you’re always prepared!

6. Go for WARM Showers - Not Boiling Hot Ones

It’s so tempting after a day out in the cold to put that bath or shower to scalding hot. You may be desperate to warm up but here’s the thing: It’s not offering your skin any health help whatsoever, In fact, it could be aggravating your winter skin issues.

The heat can make your skin dry more quickly, especially after coming in from the chilly outdoors (who knew?). It’ll take the moisture right out of your skin and your hair. So keep the temperature at a warm level, not super hot. Your skin will thank you!

7. Hydrate!

Dehydration is the number one cause of dry skin. If you aren’t getting enough water, your skin will dry out that much faster.

While a nice glass of hot chocolate might be calling your name this winter, don’t forget about the H2O. You need it and not just for your skin! Water also works wonders on your mind and the rest of your body.

Read Next: Your Mind & Body on Hydration

8. BONUS: Try Out CBD Oil to Help Reduce Inflammation

CBD oil helps reduce inflammation, especially for those dealing with recurring acne. It also comes in handy for scar reduction.

Try it out. Does it work for you?

Learn More about CBD Oil’s helpful effects here.

Keep these Skin Tips in Mind this Winter!

Dry skin doesn’t have to be a regular winter season thing. In fact, there are so many ways you can prevent it and protect your skin. Use the above tips for a little skin health help!

Come winter, we all need it. That way, you can put your best face forward - without worries or anxiety related to your skin issues.

Want more wintery self-care? Find out the best self-care for your zodiac sign here.