Lifestyle

5 Tips to Protect Sensitive Skin in the Winter

The arrival of cold weather means flurries of snow and holiday cheer, but it also means dry skin and chapped lips. With holiday commitments and busy schedules, the last thing you want to worry about is your skincare routine!

Luckily for you, all it takes are a few lifestyle changes for those with even the most sensitive skin to beat the winter weather. You can keep your skin hydrated and glowing all season long. Here are five tips to protect and nourish your skin this winter.

5 Tips to Protect Sensitive Skin in the Winter

Tip #1 – Use a Gentle Cleanser

If you have dry, itchy skin, it’s tempting to reach for an exfoliating cleanser. While this may seem like a logical solution, be careful what you put on sensitive skin! Harsh cleansers may increase irritation and lead to further dryness.

Instead of a rough scrub or acid-based exfoliant, opt for a gentle and hypoallergenic cleanser to reduce irritation. Wash your skin with lukewarm water, and use a clean towel to gently pat dry.

Tip #2 – Moisturize Every Day

 Protect Sensitive Skin in the Winter Pumping moisturizer into hand

An effective moisturizer is the holy grail of winter skincare. In order to keep your skin soft and hydrated, it’s essential to show your skin some TLM—tender love and moisturizer—every day during cold weather.

Not sure which moisturizer to choose? Here are a few creams and concoctions to consider:

  • Face cream – Use a lightweight, hypoallergenic cream for your face and neck. Make sure to choose something fragrance-free and dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin.
  • Body lotion – A thicker, more luxurious lotion is a perfect choice to hydrate your body. While this type of cream is too heavy for the delicate skin on your face, a richer moisturizer is ideal everywhere else.
  • Hand and foot cream – For heavy-duty moisturization, invest in rejuvenating hand cream. Moisturize before bed so your lotion has the maximum opportunity to soak in, leaving all ten fingers and toes soft and hydrated.

Tip #3 – Use Sunscreen

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—wear sunscreen all year round. Harmful UVA and UVB rays aren’t only a risk during the summer. In fact, the sun can damage your skin even on cloudy days! Use a mineral-based sunscreen for sensitive skin to ensure you have thorough, non-irritating protection.

Going on a weekend ski trip? Pack sunscreen to protect your nose and cheeks on the slopes.

Tip #4 – Humidify Your House

If you live in a particularly dry climate, it’s smart to invest in a humidifier. They add moisture to the air, which combats the dehydrating effects of heaters and radiators on your skin.

There are two options to choose from:

  • Cool mist humidifiers – These emit an ultrasonic, room-temperature mist. This type of humidifier is ideal for families with children since they don’t pose a threat of burns.
  • Warm mist humidifiers – Alternatively, these devices add humidity to the air by boiling water and dispersing steam. These humidifiers are slightly more hygienic than cool mist options since the boiling process kills mold and bacteria before dispersing the mist into the air.

Tip #5 – Protect Your Skin from the Elements

 

A key part of winter skin care is wearing protective layers to prevent exposure to wind and cold. Choose a hat with earflaps to cover your ears, and wear a face mask or scarf over your nose and mouth (for more reasons than one these days!).

Walking the dog on a chilly day? Don’t forget to wear gloves to protect your hands! Sorry, Fido, we don’t have matching doggy mittens for you.

Treat Yourself

Last but not least, set aside time to treat your skin this winter. Whether you decide to do a face mask, a facial, or a pedicure, there are plenty of relaxing options to take care of your body.

With gentle care, sun protection, and plenty of warm layers, you’ll have healthy skin all winter long—and beyond!

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