Take cold temperatures and add low humidity and indoor heating, and you’ve got a recipe for dry, itchy skin. Skin can become flaky and cracked due to collagen breaking down on exposure to the elements. But it is possible to find relief. Have a look at your skin care regimen to see what you could be doing better this season.
It’s enough to make you want to pack up and move to a warmer climate. We’re talking about that dry, persistent itch that plagues too many of us in the wintertime — not to mention the not-so-lovely flaky skin. Canadian winters are harsh, but there’s little we can do to change the weather. Your best resort? Trying some of these winter skin saviours. Get ready for relief!
Control yourself when it comes to the hot water tap
Brrrr — baby, it’s cold outside. And what could be more comforting than a nice, hot bath or shower? For you, maybe; for your skin, not. That cozy heat is contributing to your itchy skin by drying it out. Resist the urge to steam yourself in the bath, and cut down your time in the shower. (Brownie points for being more enviro-friendly!)
Put away your summer lotions
You still need to wear sunscreen in the winter, so keep that handy — but your summer go-to moisturizer needs to be put away until the mercury rises. Winter demands a more emollient product. Look for one containing ceramides, which lock moisture into your skin, and apply generously right after your quick shower when skin is still damp.
Try a new facial cleanser
Our complexions often bear the brunt of the damage winter weather can cause as it’s the most exposed skin. Avoid soap products (as they can be dehydrating) and, if you are using a gel cleanser, switch to a cream cleanser, which will leave your skin feeling less tight.
Make time for a facial mask
Chances are you’re spending more time at home during cold weather, so use it wisely by adding a weekly hydrating facial mask, such as fresh® Rose Face Mask or Éminence Chocolate Mousse Hydration Mask, to your regimen. If you’re pressed for time, apply it in the shower and let it sit on your skin while you wash your hair or shave your legs.
Save your dehydrated skin with a serum
Use the time you snooze by applying a hydrating serum before you go to bed. Serums have a higher concentration of active ingredients, so they really help give your skin the soothing boost it needs. Try Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10, which contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which will help with hydration, and rhamnose, which will help minimize signs of aging.
More winter beauty stories
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4 must-have beauty products for winter
Beaty tips for freezing weather
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