For all the magic and sparkle of the season, winter also brings with it some less glamorous side effects for our skin. Harsh winds, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip your complexion of its natural moisture, leaving it dry, dull, prone to irritation as well as bringing unsightly dead skin cells to the surface. And, while our instincts are to just double-down on heavy-duty formulas and oils, there’s actually much more to winter skincare than that. With a few adjustments to your skincare routine, you can keep your skin glowing and healthy throughout the winter months.
- Hydrate, Inside and Out: One of the most crucial steps in winterizing your skincare routine is to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Start by increasing your water intake to keep your skin hydrated from within. Switch to herbal tea or hot water with lemon for extra hydration that nourishes you too! Additionally, switch to a richer, more hydrating natural oil based moisturizer to create a protective barrier against the harsh elements.
- Gentle Cleansing: Cleansing is one of the most important steps in all skincare routines, but often the one we pay the least attention to. Swap out your regular cleanser for a gentler, hydrating formula. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Lipids are naturally occurring oils that help to lubricate the skin, and they also help to maintain the skin’s barrier. The problem with soap is that harsh ingredients can damage the skin’s barrier by removing the necessary intercellular lipids that keep your skin healthy and supple. The result is a dry, tight feeling in the skin which eventually leads to skin damage – making skin appear more wrinkled and less youthful. Consider using micellar water to remove makeup and impurities without the need for excessive scrubbing, which can irritate winter-weary skin.
- Exfoliate Wisely: While exfoliation is an essential part of any skincare routine, it’s crucial to adjust your approach in winter. Exfoliate your skin no more than twice a week to avoid stripping away essential oils. Choose a mild exfoliant containing natural ingredients to slough off dead skin cells gently. This will leave your skin smoother and better able to absorb the nourishing products in your routine.
- Treat Your Skin to a Facial: One of the simplest ways to increase absorption is to make sure to apply products while the skin is still moist. This is because the skin is more absorbent when it’s damp. For even greater product penetration, it’s best to put your trust in professional aesthetic treatments. Facial treatments are not only revitalizing and a great way to fight the winter blues, but they also help our at-home products to work better for us. This pampering session will not only hydrate but also provide a relaxing break from the winter stresses your skin may be facing. Zenfinity Apothecaria’s estheticians will customize your facial to make sure your skin is rejuvenated and nourished properly.
Winterizing your skincare routine is all about adapting to the unique challenges posed by colder weather. By following these simple steps and incorporating hydrating, gentle natural products into your routine, you can maintain healthy and radiant skin throughout the winter months. So, embrace the winter wonderland with confidence, knowing that your skin is well-protected and ready to face the elements.
