COOL WEATHER SKIN CARE

While less the case in the always-sunny Northern California, elsewhere across the country, it’s getting chillier as we now roll into winter and the festive jingles.

What does this mean for our skin?

More dryness and flaky skin as we dial up heaters and fluctuating stress while rushing to get those last Christmas gifts or prepare to host sumptuous family gatherings. Not to mention bidding farewell to any final attempts at clean-eating and filling up on all those hearty and delicious dishes.

Let’s be real, that’s what New Year’s resolutions are for!

So what can we do to bolster our healthy skin glow throughout the whole season? Read on for 3 top tips:

-   Sleep with a humidifier in your bedroom

Dialing up the thermostat makes your indoor air very dry, which often leads to flaky, peeling skin, or an increase in oil production as your skin’s attempt to compensate (yes, your skin can simultaneously be both dehydrated and oily!). This can result in a compromised dermal barrier and additional irritation, especially for those who suffer from eczema, psoriasis and have a naturally drier or sensitive skin type.

Raising your indoor humidity levels with a humidifier can benefit your body’s overall hydration, helping your skin maintain the moisture it needs to maintain healthy cells. You can also up your self-care regimen by inserting a few drops of calming essential oils into your humidifier – Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Bergamot or Peppermint have my vote! 

Humidifiers are easy to find and not very expensive. 

-   Dial-up your moisturizer

As harsher weather hits, I recommend that you switch out your light moisturizer for a heavier one loaded with rich emollients (skin softening or soothing properties).

A stronger skin barrier will help to effectively lock in the skin’s hydration and moisture levels.

My recommendations include iS Clinical Reparative Moisture or if you are in the snow or in very low temperature, consider either iS Clinical Sheald or Dermaceutic K Ceutic, which both has a balm consistency that will definitely protect you against harsh environment.

-   Apply sunscreen 

even (especially) when it’s snowing or on the cloudiest of days

While it’s unlikely that we’ll be sun-bathing over the winter, many may head up to the mountains for some snow sports. The clear, dry mountain air can increase UV levels, which continue to climb the higher you make your way up the mountain.

Snow and ice can reflect up to 90% of the sun’s UV rays and intensify the breaking down of your skin cells at a faster rate, also known as photoaging.

You’ve probably heard me say this before, but daily wearing of sunscreen (with ideally 1-2 reapplications throughout the day) is the cheapest and most effective anti-aging product you can get.

Your skin will thank you for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or 50 sunscreen on your face, ears and anywhere else that’s exposed from the many layers of clothing.

There you have it, friends!

Humidifier, Protective Moisturizer and SPF.

These are quick and simple steps to ensure that you radiate your way into a new year with a stunning glow and perhaps one less resolution to worry about.

Let me know if you have any questions and enjoy this special time of the year with your loved ones!