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Let the Winter Winds Blow: Skin Care Tips for Cold Weather

There are so many things to love about winter: the beauty of a fresh snowfall, the delectable treats we only indulge in during the holidays, the cozy warmth created by a fire in the fireplace, cuddly soft sweaters, slippers, and throw blankets.



But let’s face it: the frigid temperatures and harsh winds of winter can wreak havoc with one’s skin — and with so many photos being snapped at holiday parties and family get-togethers, this is one time of year when you really want to look your best.


We’ve compiled some great tips for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy so you can glow your way through the holidays!


Healthy Skin Starts at Home

Unfortunately, making your home warm and cozy can actually backfire when it comes to your skin.

Crackling fires, hot showers, relaxing sessions in the hot tub or jacuzzi bath, and even just the warmth created by turning up the thermostat are all culprits that can be incredibly drying.

Investing in a humidifier is an easy way to help combat dryness. If you have a large house, you may want to pick up a couple of humidifiers. Remember to check them regularly, as often as once a day, and refill them as necessary.

As for the thermometer? Turns out Dad was right — you really should keep the temps a little lower and put on a sweater to warm up. Aim for indoor air temperatures of 68 degrees to 72 degrees. If no one is home during the day and your home takes a long time to warm up, a programmable thermostat can be a real lifesaver.

Hygiene Hints for Happy Skin

In addition to being the “most wonderful time of the year,” this is also cold and flu season — which means that many of us have upped our handwashing habits to help stop the spread of germs. But excess cleansing can lead to dry, chapped, flaking, or even irritated skin.

Luckily, lukewarm water has been shown to be just as effective at combating germs as hot H20. So don’t stop scrubbing. Simply adapt your habits for the winter.

Similarly, a steaming hot shower feels great after a day spent shoveling, making snowmen, or skiing. The combination of hot water and soap lather, however, could be damaging to your epidermis.

Experts say it’s OK to skip vigorous, whole-body washing and stick to lathering up only certain areas, including the feet, genitals, and armpits.

Keeping that shower under 10 minutes will not only benefit your skin, but is also a water- (and planet-) saving step to take.

Choose Your Personal Care Products Wisely

If you don’t already use gentle, organic, fragrance-free soap, body wash, and facial cleanser, now is the time to switch over. A word to the wise: even products labeled “unscented” can still have fragrance added to them. Chose those labeled “fragrance free” for best results.

Steer clear of toners, astringents, and other products that contain alcohol. Those can be drying, and in some cases, that’s what you want. At this time of year, though, too much drying is going to harm rather than help your skin. So put those toners at the back of the medicine cabinet for the time being.

It’s probably a good idea to increase your moisturizer use at the same time. This goes for your face, of course, but also for your body and hands. Plenty of people swear by this natural skin cream by Egyptian Magic to keep their skin looking dewy and youthful.

But there’s no shortage of products available that also offer natural additives that may assist your skin in retaining its natural moisture. Again, just be mindful that you are not opting for anything with loads of fragrance or other potentially irritating chemicals.

Lastly, don’t forget to abide by the iron-clad rule for wearing makeup: take it off at the end of the evening! No matter how tired you are from the holiday festivities, it’s crucial to take a few minutes before bed to remove your makeup, cleanse your face, and apply a heavy-duty nighttime moisturizer.

Put Your Best Face Forward for the Season!

Follow these tips for the healthiest winter skin possible, and you’ll reap the rewards when you see how radiant and beautiful you look in those holiday snapshots!

What are your favorite wintertime skincare products? Do you change up your moisturizing routine in the wintertime? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section!
(Contributed by Lisa)

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