7 tips for healthy winter skin
As the seasons change so do our skin’s needs. The combination of cold winter air and dry indoor furnaces running on high can leave skin feeling less than awesome. In this article, we will talk a bit about what’s happening to your skin during this time and ways to combat winter stressors.
Hydrate!
Winter can leave your skin feeling rough and dry. Replenishing moisture will help to reduce irritation. Look for soothing ingredients like shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, and glycerin. All of these are found in ZO Hydrating Crème.
Switch to hydrating cleansers
During the colder seasons, it’s a great idea to switch to a hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping the skin. ZO Hydrating Cleanser is super nourishing while being an effective cleanser.
Protect your skin barrier
Filaggrin is one of the most important proteins in our skin for maintaining skin barrier function. During the winter filaggrin production is lower, plus filaggrin production decreases with age. A damaged skin barrier can worsen many skin issues like acne, eczema, and rosacea just to name a few. To protect your barrier you want to ensure your acid mantle is at an ideal pH (4.5 - 5.5.) and that your microbiome (skin flora, part of the immune system) has prebiotics to ‘feed’ on.
We recommend using a toner after cleansing to restore your skin’s pH to an ideal level. Followed by Vivier Derma-V which contains prebiotics, antioxidants and skin-repairing ingredients like teprenone.
Heal tired eyes
Harsh winter weather can really take a toll on the delicate under eyes. You may also find yourself squinting a lot in the winter from the blinding light reflected off the snow. If this sounds like you consider giving your eyes a little extra love. Try a serum to add hydration and reduce creasing and never leave home without some sunglasses.
Redness solutions
Noticing an increase in redness is a common issue during the winter. Products like ZO Rozatrol work by closing off the capillaries to prevent excess blood from filling them. Making you look less red and reducing the risk of permanent damage to your capillaries.
Don’t forget SPF
A common misconception is that SPF is only needed in the summer. Unfortunately, UVA rays (responsible for advancing aging) are present all year round, no matter the weather. If you participate in winter sports like skiing you should take extra precautions because UV radiation increases by 5% with every 1000 you rise above sea level. So lather up and reapply every 2 hours if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.
Environmental factors
There are a few things outside of skincare that indirectly affect your skin.
Avoid hot showers. Hot water can contribute to dry skin. Try not to let your showers get too steamy, and moisturize as soon as you’re out of the shower.
Drink less alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates you!
Drink more water. Water hydrates you!
Dress for the weather. Dress in warm layers and cover your face with a scarf or balaclava.
Sleep with a humidifier to combat the effects of dry indoor air.
