Best Winter Skincare Tips

Winter can be a very harsh season for our skin. The cold temperatures and dry indoor air during winter can leave skin more dry and sensitive. It is important to make some small adjustments to your skincare routine during this season to keep it healthy and moisturized.

Caring for skin during winter takes just a little extra time and effort because the conditions are rather extreme. Skin gets exposed to elements such ad cold air, wind, and the UV rays reflecting off the snow. Low humidity is also common in colder climates which steals moisture from the skin. And once indoors you are blasted with dry heat. This makes our skin dry, flaky, and itchy.

These are our top tips for keeping the skin at its best during the wintertime!

Limit Shower Time and Temperature

It may be tempting to take a long, steamy shower, but your skin will be much better served with a 5 to 10 minutes shower with lukewarm water. You should also avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands — if the water causes your skin to turn red, it’s too hot. After the shower, do not forget to hydrate the skin thoroughly.

Choose gentle, fragrance-free Cleansers

The wrong soap can worsen itchy, dry skin. For instance, regular bar soaps may contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. Instead, wash with a fragrance-free, moisturizing cleanser or gel. This is also important for your facial cleanser. At Gamila, our Original Cleansing bar is the best option during wintertime. With 100% natural ingredients, and handmade with the best ancient processes, it is the best cleanser if you want to prevent dryness and flakiness.

Adapt your skincare routine for the season

During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and apply toners and astringents sparingly, if at all. Many astringents contain alcohol, which can further dry your skin. When your skin is dry and itchy, you should avoid using products that contain alcohol and fragrances in order to help the skin retain its natural oils. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face. For example, the Gamila Secret Face Oils might be an excellent option for a night moisturizer. The natural oils help to lock in moisture and regenerate the skin.

Moisturize your hands (frequently!)

Hand-washing is vital, especially during the cold and flu season. But, constant washing will cause dryness. Applying hand cream after each washing can help, and the Gamila Secret Hand Cream might be your best ally for this time of the year!

SPF is still your best friend

On bright winter days, snow reflects the sun’s rays — up to 80 percent, increasing your risk of exposure. That means that it’s just as important to be applying sunscreen in the harsh winter weather as it is in the summer. Even on rainy days, the sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage.

Before you go outside, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body.

Stay hydrated

Sometimes when skin is very dry, it can be helped by foods or supplements that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil. It is also important to maintain your daily intake of water during winter, even though you might not feel as thirsty.

Add moisture to your home

To counter the drying effects of indoor heat it can help running a humidifier. You can use a portable or tabletop model or one that integrates with your existing heating system. Moisture in the air will be absorbed by your skin.

 

---

Sources: Everydayhealth.com; Reidhealth.org