We spend a lot of time protecting our skin from the sun’s UV rays during the warmer months. However, our skin is just as susceptible to damage during the winter months. In fact, people of all ages suffer from dry skin during the winter because the humidity is typically much lower. When skin becomes dry, it looks dull and feels rough to the touch. Existing fine lines may become more pronounced while wrinkles can begin looking slightly fractured.
Dry skin is preventable. And with winter looming, it’s important that you take preventative measures to ensure that your skin can retain sufficient moisture. Today, I’ll explain how you can protect your skin from drying out during the coming winter months.
Using Sunscreens During The Winter
The epidermis protects the underlying layers of skin. It is made up from several layers; the top layer is called the stratum corneum and contains natural oils that help the body retain water. When the stratum corneum retains enough water, the skin is smooth and supple. However, when this uppermost layer of skin loses water, it becomes dry, and if left unchecked, can crack and even bleed.
There are a number of environmental factors that can influence how quickly the stratum corneum loses moisture. One of these factors is excess exposure to the sun’s UV rays. While some may consider it counterintuitive, you should be using an effective sunscreen during the winter that offers broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. The sun is damaging to your skin throughout the entire year. Anthelios sunscreens are formulated to provide the highest level of protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Moisturize To Retain Water
Because dry skin is so prevalent during the winter, consider using emollients that help your skin retain water while replenishing valuable lipids and essential fatty acids. As humidity decreases, your skin has a difficult time maintaining its smooth and supple appearance. These 2 moisturizers contain ingredients that will help keep your skin in good condition in the harsh winter environment:
Lipikar Lipid Replenishing Cream – Formulated with Shea Butter, this emollient can help repair dehydrated skin while providing lipids and fatty acids to aid in water retention.
IsoUrea Body Milk – When your skin is dry, it can look unsightly and feel uncomfortable. This moisturizer restores comfort and helps rehydrate your skin.
Exfoliate to Shed Dry Skin Cells
Though it seems counter-intuitive, exfoliating not only gets rid of dry, rough skin cells that sit on the skin’s surface, but can also help to increase penetration of moisturizers. Consider products like:
Lac-Hydrin – Formulated with Lactic Acid, Lac-Hydrin is indicated for dry skin conditions and can help soothe itchiness that often accompanies dry skin.
MaMa Lotion – a 20% alpha hydroxy acid concentration, this multi-purpose product is ideal for all skin types.
Preparing For The Cold Months
Plan to use a combination of well formulated sunscreens and emollients to prevent your skin from drying out. While an effective sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, moisturizers can replenish dry skin with essential lipids while helping it retain water. Exfoliants can help your skin absorb moisturizers more effectively. Taking these steps can help ensure that your skin looks smooth and healthy during the winter months.
