Winter can be hard on the skin, as the cold can make it brittle and the wind can dry it out. Combined, the two can make the skin crack, especially areas that are exposed like the face and hands. However, with a few basic precautions, you can maintain supple, soft skin throughout the winter season. Read on to learn more!

1.) Moisturizers are Your Friend

While you should be moisturizing your hands throughout the year, the winter can be especially hard on your skin as the wind and cold will make it dry and brittle. If you are located in a cold and dry area, using a moisturizer with some level of SPF regularly can help to restore lost moisture to the skin.

2.) Keep Protected

Moisturizers are not the only way to keep your skin protected! Wearing a jacket, a hat, a scarf, and even a pair of gloves can help keep your skin protected from the cold and wind, allowing you to keep your skin healthy well into the winter months.

3.) Protect Your Hands

During the colder months, areas that are exposed to the elements more often, such as your hands, can take a real beating.  A good hand lotion is always a good start, but try to wear gloves as much as possible to keep them out of the direct wind.

4.) Eat Smarter

What you eat can affect your skin health, so make sure that your meals and snacks are healthy and balanced. Also, try to consume some Vitamin E in order to improve your skin health! Common foods rich in Vitamin E include pumpkin, red bell pepper, peanut butter, almonds, and spinach.

5.) Keep Exercising

Keep up your exercise routine as much as possible, shifting indoors if need be. Exercise is not only good for your mental and physical health but will also help keep your blood flowing, nourishing your skin.

6.) Bathe Regularly

Keeping your skin clean helps eliminate dirt and oil, which can lead to pesky breakouts. Also, remember to always apply a moisturizer after washing your skin to keep it hydrated!

7.) Reduce the Heat

Not only can cranking up the furnace result in a high heating bill, but it can also dry out your skin!  While your lips can be protected by a good lip balm, heat can dry out the rest of your skin, resulting in itching and flaking.

8.) Back Off on Exfoliation

If your skin is especially sensitive during the winter months, try not to exfoliate as often as you would in the summer. While exfoliation can be helpful for removing dead and flaky skin, it can be harsh on wind-chapped skin or skin that is very dry.

9.) Make Appointments with a Licensed Aesthetician.

If you are dealing with very dry, flaky, or cracked skin, be sure to make an appointment with a licensed aesthetician for professional advice. They can help create a skincare routine that is personalized to you for the best possible results.

10.) Reduce Stress

While this is usually easier said than done, making an effort to reduce stress in your life, especially around the holidays, can do wonders for your skin. Taking some time to relax every day or taking part in activities that you enjoy doing can help to stave off premature wrinkles and lines for beautiful skin.

About Us

Michigan Advanced Aesthetics can help you keep your skin smooth and supple throughout the winter months. Founded by Laura E. LoCricchio, licensed aesthetician and clinical skin care specialist, we can help you with a variety of skincare issues. Contact us today to learn more!