(GoHealthier.com) – It seems like a while since we last felt the kiss of summer, leaving behind that bronzed glow that many of us crave. Just because we’re cooped up and covered up because of the cold doesn’t mean our skin can’t shine bright.
Skin care might be even more critical during the winter. The cold temperatures and whip of winter wind might dry and chafe our skin. The good news? There are simple ways to replenish it. Here are five winter skin care tips we may want to consider implementing today.
1. Use Sunscreen
Many people experience the winter blahs. Inconsistent sunshine is the leading cause, but a lack of direct sun doesn’t mean we shouldn’t protect our skin when venturing outdoors. UV rays are still very prevalent during dreary days.
The sun reflecting off the snow can make UV rays just as dangerous as a day at the beach. Unexpected solar radiation may put us at a greater risk for skin damage. Use a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF year-round, and reapply it as needed.
2. Lower Your Home’s Thermostat
When the cold seeps inside, it’s time to turn up the heat indoors. Many people set their thermostats higher to keep temperatures consistent, but this might also circulate dry air, wreaking havoc on the skin.
Keep temps steady by adding a smart thermostat to prevent the HVAC unit from running continuously. Many people also choose to add a humidifier to their furnace blower to cut down on static electricity and increase ambient humidity during the coldest months. Both of these measures may help control dry, cracked skin.
3. Switch to Gentle Body Cleansers
Tropical scents of florals and fresh waters are favorite soap and body wash scents — but they may not contain moisture-retaining properties, and even worse, the fragrances might cause dry skin in some cases. Instead, consider options to nourish skin during cooler months.
If your skin is dry and cracking, choose gentle body washes and soaps that contain natural, skin-friendly oils like argan, coconut and jojoba. Avoid artificial fragrances, and consider washing using fingertips instead of a washcloth or exfoliant sponge.
4. Eat Right and Stay Hydrated
Beautiful, glowing skin starts from the inside. Keep your internal moisture levels high by drinking more water. Water hydrates vital organs and feeds the skin. Dehydration can lead to dull, flaky, unsightly skin.
Eating healthy is important, too! Following a balanced, well-rounded food plan — like the Mediterranean Diet, for instance — with plenty of healthy fruits, veggies and lean meats might provide collagen and the nutrients our skin craves. Remember, fried and processed foods may leave our skin looking greasy and tired because they tend to be nutritionally deficient.
5. Moisturize Skin Frequently
For some of us, the best beauty advice our grandmas gave us was to moisturize. Not only does it keep our appearance supple and youthful, it helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines. One can spend a fortune on serums and lotions or just find a drugstore brand free of parabens and additives. Choose a simple base made of natural ingredients, and use moisturizers as frequently as possible.
Taking care of our skin should be a priority not just during the winter but year-round. Harmful UV rays can do a number on our skin at any time, and winter’s harsh temperatures can dry our skin out if we aren’t careful. Following the tips above can keep our skin feeling great and looking youthful and fresh.
~Here’s to a Healthier Life!
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