Monday, October 11, 2021

How to Winterize Your Skin


Like no other season winter puts an incredible strain on your skin. The cold temperatures outdoors and heated room indoors are more than even the healthiest skin can tolerate - the moisture levels drop and skin looks and feels dull and dehydrated. Thanks goodness, this problems can easily be alleviated with a little extra care, but you have to be consequent in your daily if you want to see some success.

Winter Skincare Protocol

No matter what your complexion, you may have to change your skincare products in order to adapt your skin to subzero temperatures. Also remember that skin can become sensitive during the winter months and you may not be able to tolerate your favorite products.
  • Cleansing - use gentle, perfume-free cleansing products to remove make up and cleanse your skin. By all means, void harsh soaps and scented cleansers! When washing your face, use lukewarm water to wash off any product residue. Finish with a few splashes of cold water to allow blood circulation.
  • Exfoliation - Once a week, use a gentle, unscented exfoliator to remove dry skin and even out your complexion. I love to use raw honey. I mix a teaspoon of honey with a little lukewarm water and massage the mixture into my skin and lips. I allow the honey to dry on my face and remove it gently with water after a few minutes, without rubbing my face. The enzymes in honey help exfoliate dead skin cells and leave my skin nice and smooth. Honey is a luxury that can be used on the entire body. Give it a try.
  • Moisturizing - You may discover that your favorite moisturizer isn't enough to keep your skin hydrated during the winter. Use a nutrient-rich serum under your moisturizer to lock in moisture. Many women swear that there is nothing better than virgin coconut oil. It can be applied in the morning and at night, indoors and out. If you have never used coconut oil on your face, you may experience initial problems and breakouts as the skin adjusts itself to the fat content in coconut oil. Coconut oil can be applied on the entire body and can also be used to moisturize damaged and dehydrated hair. Give it a try.
  • Extra Care - At least twice a week, apply rich, nourishing mask to your face. Choose certified organic products to minimize the risk of allergy or irritation. Leave the mask on your face for 15-20 minutes and relax. Follow the products instructions to remove it. Also, visit a beauty salon at least once a month to get a facial. A certified beautician may help you identify problems and take care of skin that is damaged by cold and wind. She or he can help you choose beauty products that are right for your skin during the cold season.
Our faces are directly exposed to the elements during the winter, but they are not the only ones that "suffer" during the winter. Remember to take good care of your entire body. Exfoliate and moisturize!

  • Take extra care of your feet. Even if it does not look like that, the next summer is coming sooner than you think. Wear warm, comfortable shoes and apply foot cream to keep your feet moisturized. 
  • Take care of your hands! Wear warm gloves and use nourishing hand cream. Also, keep the nail cuticles moisturized and your nails well groomed. 
  • Do not forget your hair! Nourish your scalp and moisturize the hair follicles during the winter months. 
  • Always protect your lips! Wear protective lip balm to prevent dryness and chapping.

To prevent dehydration, moisturize from inside out. Drink enough water to stay hydrated. Also, do not overheat your home. Use air humidifier to improve the quality of air you are breathing in.

Remember to nourish your skin from inside out. Chose foods rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. You are what you eat and what you eat shows up in your complexion. Take nutritional supplements to support your body during the winter.

And last, but not least, exercise to get your blood circulation moving and spend some quality times outdoors if the weather permits.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2021

*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.