Journey with me.
It's cold.
Snow is falling.
There are lights all around you.
You have a cup of hot coffee in your hand.
and...
Your skin is peeling, itching, and irritated.
Ugh. Mental journey completely ruined.
Raise your hand if your skin changes throughout the year. I see pretty much everyone's hand raised. It's a matter of fact. Your skin changes based on diet, environment, and the products you use. That being said, two out of those three factors change pretty constantly. Your diet and environment are in a constant state of flux which means your skin is too.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. We're talking about Winter and skin so let's start there. The harsh weather in the winter can cause your skin to be stripped of its outer layer. This totally sucks because that outer layer is holding in moisture and minerals. It also protects your skin from environmental factors like dirt and pollution. So now, your skin is totally exposed and vulnerable. All the water is evaporating into the air, and your pores are now clogged with the gross hamburger steam coming off your Wendy's 4-for-4.
So now what? Well, unfortunately, Winter is a part of life and most of us can't hop on a jet to the Keys in the colder months. But, there ARE things you can do to help alleviate the sorrows of Winter Skin.
1. My skin is so DRY!
More than likely your skin is chapped, not dry. Big difference. Chapped skin is just lacking its protective barrier that holds in its moisture. Dry skin has that protective barrier, it's just lacking water. Are you with me so far? You want a products that are going to help protect your outer barrier. If you're normally oily, try a creamy, soap-based cleanser that won't strip your outer skin barrier. Follow-up with a cream based moisturizer to lock everything in! If you're already dry, like me, add in a rich hydrating masque or serum to your current routine!
2. My skin is itching like crazy!
Relax! You're probably NOT having an allergic reaction. A cold, dry environment can trigger an inflammatory response in your skin, which then releases histamines, and then you start itching. If you're having itchiness, try incorporating oats and ginger into your skin care routine or even your diet! These ingredients help relieve itching sensations and a whole host of extra skin benefits.
3. My skin sucks and I'm too lazy to do all this stuff.
Time to go back to basics. Cleanse. Tone. Moisturize. It's that easy. Just make sure the products you're using are cream based and don't have any alcohol! AND DON'T FORGET CHAPSTICK! You can also take a cooler shower and apply lotion right when you get out to lock in that moisture!
The Winter months are ROUGH on our skin, but that doesn't mean our skin has to suffer. There are simple steps or product changes that can give you beautiful, healthy skin, even in the harshest of circumstances.
Stay Beautiful,
Megan
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