We love the joys of heaters and blowers all through the winter, but walking outside in the sun or taking hot showers can drastically diminish our skin texture. Winter is the most miserable time for our texture; thus, winning this struggle against dry, pale, lifeless skin and restoring shine should be your top goals.
This guide by our dermatologist - Dr Sneha Sood aims to help you create a healthy skincare routine for the winter and enhance the sparkle of your skin!
Understand the Shift in Winter Skin
Cold air has a lower moisture content. The dry air tends to wipe away all of the moisture from our skin during these seasons. This produces a slew of skin issues, all of which can have a long-term influence on the health of your skin.
Low humidity levels, harsh breezes, and indoor heating primarily because of winter skin problems. Here are some of the most common winter concerns:
- Dehydration: Colder temperatures and low precipitation can dehydrate the skin by robbing it of its natural glow.
- Dullness: Lower blood circulation in cooler temperatures and the deposition of dead skin cells can lead to a dull complexion.
- Irritation: Rough winter winds, low humidity, and proximity to indoor heaters may damage the skin and irritate people with fragile skin.
- Chapped Lips: Cold air and low moisture cause dry, cracked, and brittle lips.
Adopt the Right Winter Skin Routine
Making the switch to an effective skincare regimen s is essential to fixing the difficulties brought by the chilly, dry weather. The combination of low humidity, severe winds, and warm interiors can take a toll on skin radiance, causing dehydration, dullness, and inflammation. Here are some crucial steps to adopt:
Embrace Double Cleansing
- A double cleans is especially useful in the winter to effectively remove dirt, makeup and sunscreen.
- Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen.
- Follow up with a gentle, watery cleanser to cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
- Double cleansing provides a clean coating for subsequent skincare products and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Prioritise Hydration
- Hydration is essential in the winter to avoid dryness and dehydration.
- Use a moisturising cleanser that preserves the skin's natural oil balance.
- Look for components in your moisturizer, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, to seal in moisture.
- Consider applying a face mist or moisturising serum to give yourself an extra boost during the day.
Never Skip Sunscreen
- Sunscreen is a year-round essential in your skincare.
- UV rays damage the skin, and the reflective snow can intensify exposure.
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it religiously every morning, even on cloudy days. "Reapply as needed, particularly when spending time outdoors.
Follow a Nutritious Diet
- A healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants supports overall skin health.
- Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, to support the skin’s lipolysis.
- Eat high-water fruits and vegetables to help drain skin from the inside out. Vitamins A, C, and E are especially beneficial for skin health.
Moisturise Regularly
- Use a nice, dewy humidifier to evaporate dampness and prevent water loss.
- Look for ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil and squalane for extra nutrition.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after washing to lock in moisture. Consider using a thicker cream at night to stay hydrated during the cold, dry hours.
Exfoliate Gently
- Add a gentle exfoliator to your routine to cut dead skin cells and enhance cell turnover.
- This can help deal with skin and improve the absorption of other skin care products.
- Avoid sliding too much, as it can worsen the dryness. Depending on your skin, 1-2 times a week is usually enough.
How Can Dr. Sneha Help?
Winter is a time of pleasure and precaution and hence; maintaining skin moisture is paramount. Dr. Sneha Sood offers invaluable assistance in restoring and preserving skin hydration. Sneha offers expertise to guide individuals through the right steps, ensuring hydration, and adapting to a healthy skincare regimen. Book your consultation for a radiant, smooth appearance.
