With the changing seasons, our skin’s needs change as well. Colder temperatures outside, typically mean warmer temperatures inside and lower levels of humidity in the air. You may experience dry, dull, irritated, tight or red skin during these winter months. The most common misconception about winter skin is that a thicker moisturizer is THE solution. Protecting your skin with an additional moisture barrier is part of the solution, but there are other ways you can ensure that your skin stays hydrated and glowing all winter long!
EXFOLIATION
If you are applying skin care products on top of closed or clogged pores, you are not experiencing their designed efficacy or getting the best value for your money. Ideally, you should wash your face every day with a gentle cleanser, and exfoliate 1-2 times per week. Physical exfoliators (cleansers with beads) are the most common, though they can cause some added irritation or redness. Gentle chemical exfoliators may be less irritating and more effective.
Our favourite exfoliators : Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel & Charcoal Facial Mask
PREP YOUR SKIN
We hear you – you want a “simple skin care routine”. To keep it simple, most people usually skip the prep step which occurs after cleansing and before serums and moisturizers. Prepping the skin with a toner or an essence helps to balance the pH of the skin and opens up your pores to receive your treatment. Our favourite essence (like a toner but more beneficial) lends vital nutrients to the skin’s moisture barrier: Beautycounter’s Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence.
ADD H.A.
Hyaluronic acid (aka Sodium Hyaluronate) is naturally found in the body and can hold 1000X its weight in water! Its main purpose is to retain water, so when added to your skin it delivers a boost of hydration and helps to prevent further moisture loss. This added hydration may also cause skin to appear more plump which isn’t a bad thing if lines and wrinkles are on your list of skin concerns. This is your treatment step.
Our favourite serums with H.A: Beautycounter’s Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum & Countermatch Intense Moisture Serum
PROTECT
Your moisturizer is the barrier between your skin and the outside world. Its job is to protect your skin from moisture loss and environmental stressors that may cause skin damage. During the cooler winter months, your skin produces less oils and more moisture is lost due to environmental factors. A richer moisturizer with nourishing ingredients will help to soothe the skin. Look for face creams with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and omegas for added moisture and oil, and shea butter and swiss alpine rose for protection.
Our favourite moisturizers for winter wear: Beautycounter’s Countertime Antioxidant Soft Cream & Countermatch Recovery Sleeping Cream
DRINK MORE WATER
Water makes up 50-70% of your body. Every organ needs it, including your largest one: your SKIN. Your hydration needs are unique, but aiming for 2-4L (~100 ounces) per day should have you on your way to feeling hydrated. When skin is hydrated, it appears brighter and plumper. There are many other body benefits to drinking more water – stay tuned for an upcoming blog post!
USE A HUMIDIFIER
The air in our homes tends to be drier in the winter because of the added heat to keep you warm. When possible (for example, at night-time while you sleep) turn the heat down and keep a cool mist humidifier going to increase the humidity levels in the air. Your skin will thank you.
Do you have a question about how to keep your skin glowing this winter? Send us a message!