Winter-proofing Skin Tips
The weather lately has been crazy! One day it is hot and dry with Santa Ana winds and the next day it is cold and rainy. This time of year can really wreak havoc on our skin with the weather not being able to make up its mind. Not only can this cause an impaired barrier function, it can also amplify any skin conditions you are predisposed to like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.Here's some tips to keep your skin healthy during this holiday season.
Myth: The thicker the cream, the more moisturizing it is.
Fact: Thick cream doesn't equal moisture. The heaviness of a cream is often due to the lipids and emulsifiers in the formula, and sometimes heavyweight creams can leave skin looking dull while trapping dead cells and affecting skin function.
Myth: You don't have to apply sunscreen as obsessively in the winter as you do in the summer.
Fact: Winter, spring, summer, or fall: if there is daylight, you're still exposed to UV light and free radical damage. And if sunscreen helps prevent the signs of aging, why wouldn't you want to wear itevery day?
Myth: Skip exfoliation so you don't dry everything out.
Fact: Quite the opposite! Exfoliation causes a burst in cell renewal, moving newer, moisture-rich cells to the surface.Exfoliation also removes old dead cells and dry skin, providing a smoother, brighter surface while enabling effective penetration of hydrating ingredients into skin. Just be sure to not over-exfoliate, as this will break down the skin's protective barrier. For extra benefits, exfoliate with a gentle daily exfoliant. When performing more intense exfoliation, it is great to follow it with a hydrating masque.
Myth: Hot, steamy showers are great for skin.
Fact: No- especially in winter! Hot water causes a stripping effect to delicate barrier lipids in-between the cells; when the lipids are removed, essential moisture below evaporates out. Combine hot showers with irritation caused by winter wardrobe made of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester and you've got a itchy, irritation skin situation!Warm water is best for skin when used together with a soap-free body wash. Bar soap or high foam-producing, artificially-perfumed shower gels will dry out the skin. Body exfoliation will help remove dry, winter skin. After bathing, pat skin dry, then thoroughly moisturize immediately after.
Myth: Oily skin types don't need moisturizing.
Fact: You can have oily skin and still experience dehydration, which is a lack of water in the skin. This means even the oiliest of skin conditions should moisturize.
Myth: For dry lips, just apply more lip balm.
Fact: Some lip balms can create more bad than good. Mineral oil (petroleum jelly) creates an artificial film on the lips, and this gives the skin the illusion that it doesn't need to produce lipids. These ingredients together with artificial flavors, colors, and fragrances can dry out the skin. Use lip healthy alternatives like lip complexes that contain ingredients like Shea Butter, Silicones, Cocoa Seed Butter, Avacado Oil, and Wheat Germ.Lips can use a little exfoliation, too! If you own Daily Microfoliant from Dermalogica, this can be used on the lips. Another tip: stop use of lip plumpers and long-lasting stains for a few days.
Myth: Let your skin hybernate and cut back on treatments.
Fact: Winter is actually the best time to take care of your skin with professional treatments. Skin may need more help, especially dry, sensitive/sensitized, and rosacea prone skins. Professional oatmeal masques are wonderful during the winter season, as are paraffin dips for hands and feet. Nothing is better than a warm thermal body treatment if you have dry parched skin! As legs, underarms, and bikini aren't as exposed, this is also a great time to perform laser hair removal.