Dermatologists Shared How to Keep Your Skin From Freezing Out in Winter
02.12.2021Winter’s cold, bitter days, windy, and beautiful weather can not only make us feel down, but it can also cause havoc on our skin. Our skin can become dry, flaky and red from cold weather. It is possible to keep your skin glowing and happy throughout winter. All you need is expert knowledge. We consulted a number of experts in skincare to share the best skin tips that will ensure your complexion looks its best throughout winter.
Continue scrolling to find the 12 best winter skin tips.
- Avoid Fragrance and Alcohol
Dr. Ross Perry, Medical Director at CosmedicsUK, suggests that you switch to a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. “Strong soaps can make your skin more dry and itchy. I recommend using a cream-based cleanser. Avoid toners and astringents that contain alcohol. This can dry out your skin.”
- Take Omegas
Dr. Sophie Shotter advises that you take a supplement with omega 3 and 6 and 9. “Zenii Triple Omegas ($40) is my favorite. These omegas are important for skin health. However, there is evidence that they can improve eczema. They help maintain healthy cell membranes, which allow cells to retain water. A healthy barrier will help support softer, more flexible skin.”
Dr. Nicholas Perricone agrees. He says, “A high-quality Omega-3 is something I recommend patients not to be without. I’ve seen the greatest results in skin transformations with patients suffering from chronically dry skin. You’ll notice a difference in your skin within a few days. They will experience a decrease in dryness, increased suppleness, and radiance.”
- Moisturize Your Hands
Dr. Perry notes that hands can be forgotten about in winter, but they can show signs of aging if not taken care of and look dry, cracked, and lined up. To protect your hands, wear gloves when you clean or wash up. Regular hand washing in winter is a good way to keep the flu and cold germs at bay.
- Eat More Avocado
“Eating healthy fats like avocado has been shown to help maintain supple and springy skin,” says Dr. Rekha Tailor (the founder of Health & Aesthetics). Healthy fats are important for maintaining the health of your hands and face, and keeping them from drying out during winter months. (Plus, eating avocados can help your hair, too.)
- Use SPF
Dr. Tailor says that people tend to believe that SPF can be stopped once winter arrives. However, even though winter temperatures drop significantly, the sun can still cause severe skin damage, especially when it reflects off of snow. It’s vital to apply sunscreen to your skin, neck, hands, and any other exposed areas. This will prevent premature aging.
- Stay Active
There’s nothing more comforting than curling up in front of a fire in winter. However, being active can increase circulation, boost your pulse rate, and give you a healthy glow. Dr. Tailor says that even a half-hour walk three times per week can help maintain radiant skin.
- Take Care of Your Accessories
Most people reach for their cozy beanies and scarves when the temperature drops. Although cold-weather accessories are important for protection against the elements and can be irritating if worn next to the skin, knitted accessories can cause discomfort and irritation. Dr. Tailor explains that itchy skin (also known as pruritus) can be made worse by irritating winter fabrics. Avoid itchy skin and dry scalp by choosing natural, breathable fabrics for winter clothing. This allows for air to circulate and helps reduce heat buildup, which can cause irritation.
Also, knitwear should be taken care of. Pamela Marshall (the founder of Mortar & Milk) notes that many clients experience acne around their necks and jawline during winter months. She says that this is often due to the constant contact of jacket collars and dirty scarves with our faces. These should be cleaned regularly. Makeup should not be placed around the collar of your puffer coat.
- Eat Kale
Kale is rich in vitamin C. In fact, Dr. Tailor estimates that one cup contains more than half the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. He says that this helps skin heal and grow new cells.
- Continue Dry Brushing
Fair-weather dry skin brushes should continue to do so throughout winter. Dry skin brushing supports detoxification and stimulates the lymphatic system. Lisa de-la-Plain is co-founder of Beauty Flash and a professional beauty therapist. She advises that before you bathe, you should brush your skin using a soft natural brush. This helps to remove dead skin cells, which can help the skin absorb more nutrients.
- Learn how to be a great ingredient savvy
Dr. Shotter reveals which ingredients should be included in your winter skincare routine and why.
- Urea is a gentler exfoliant. This is a great ingredient to use in winter when your skin can’t tolerate strong active ingredients.
- Long-chain lipids, Ceramides: Ceramides support the skin cells by keeping them in a logical matrix. The difference in ceramide levels between winter and summer is significant. This means that our skin loses more water via TEWL. Research has shown that a combination of ceramides and cholesterol is more effective than any one ingredient. The perfect winter moisturizer is Skinceuticals Triple Lip Restore ($128)
- CBD: Winter can cause our skin to feel more sensitive due to the cold winds. The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of CBD have been demonstrated.
- Another great ingredient for winter moisture is squalane. Squalene, a natural oil that your skin produces, decreases with age. It moisturizes and helps nourish your skin.
- Retinol: Although winter skin may feel more sensitive, it is important to remember to use retinol. Vitamin A can help speed up cell turnover which is slower during winter months. Your skin will look more vibrant, healthier, and wrinkle-free if it is kept stimulated.
- Sleep for glowing skin
Dr. Murad is a board-certified dermatologist who founded Murad skincare. He believes deep sleep is one the best things for skin and health. He explains that sleep has many therapeutic benefits. It may be one your body’s most productive times to repair every system, including your skin. This is the largest and most vulnerable system of your body. Another top tip? Eat a handful of walnuts before you go to bed. They are rich in omegas and antioxidants that may improve your sleep.
- Don’t Overuse Oils
There is a belief that oils can cause skin conditions such as rosacea or acne. Nataliya Robinson, an esthetician, advises against using pure oils such as argan or jojoba on cold days when your skin may need extra nourishment. Pure oils can cause damage to your skin’s lipid barrier by being applied daily. Mixing oils into your normal day and night cream is the best way to use them.
Check out these 5 skin-boosting products
- Tinker Taylor Lip Scrub $27
This scrub was created by Zoe Taylor, a makeup artist. It contains cinnamon, baobab oil, rice bran oil, and cranberry oil. This lip scrub is extremely nourishing and leaves your lips feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. It tastes delicious, too!
- Trilogy Cream Cleanser $39
This gentle cleanser is made with pure plant rosehip, evening Primrose, and carrot oils. It effectively removes dirt and makeup without stripping your skin.
- Murad Night Fixenzyme Treatment $70
This treatment is packed with enzymes and gently exfoliates your skin. It also helps to boost your skin’s natural healing processes. You will also notice a smoother and brighter complexion thanks to the lock-in of hydration.
- Perricone MD Cold Plasma + $149
This multi-tasking serum is designed to soothe and treat winter skin. It contains vitamin C ester, omegas 3, 6, and 9, which help to improve pigmentation and reduce wrinkles. This serum reduces redness and makes the complexion look radiant.
- Epaderm Emollient for Dry Skin $23
This cream, which is thick and rich in emollients, is free of fragrance and colors and helps to retain moisture even in the most dry skin types.