How to Keep Your Skin Happy this Winter

Let’s face it: After the holidays, winter weather can quickly lose its charm. Chilly days that once felt fun and festive — Gingerbread lattes! Snow angels! A white Christmas! — may start to feel miserable, and you may find yourself longing for the warmer days ahead. To make matters worse, freezing temps and blustering wind can do a number on your skin. With the help of resident expert Mary Radford, RN, we’ve assembled some dos and don’ts that will help spare your skin when Jack Frost is nipping at your nose.

1. DO hydrate. When skin is at its driest, a daily and nightly hydration boost is exactly what it needs — and serums pack the biggest punch, in some cases raising hydration levels by 200% after just one use.* Layer one under your moisturizer morning and night to comfort dry skin.
2. DON’T skip sunscreen. Even if you don’t see the sun, its harmful rays can find you 365 days a year. Help prevent premature signs of aging by applying sunscreen every day.
3. DON’T use hot water. Whether you’re showering or washing your face, using water that’s too hot can dry out your skin. For best results, use lukewarm water and moisturize when skin is still damp to help lock-in extra moisture.
4. DO exfoliate regularly. Dead skin cells make it harder for moisturizers and other products to reach the uppermost layer of your skin and do the job they’re supposed to do. Once a week, use an exfoliator to reap the benefits of your products and enjoy softer-feeling skin.
5. DON’T hit the tanning bed. When you’re feeling pale and pasty, it can be tempting to make a stop at the tanning salon, but doing so is harmful to your skin. If you’re in desperate need of a skin-kissed glow, use a self-tanner
6. DO care for your eyes. The delicate skin around your eyes is easily affected by harsh winter weather. It’s thinner than skin on other areas of your body and isn’t able to retain moisture as well. Keep your eyes looking their best by locking in moisture and adding hydration with a product made specifically for the eye areamorning and night. And don’t forget about your lashes: Condition them nightly to keep their appearance looking long and lush.
7. DO hydrate from the inside out. You might not feel as thirsty as you do during summer, but drinking water and eating hydrating fruits and vegetables is just as important in the winter.
8. DON’T neglect your hands. There’s nothing enjoyable about having dry, rough hands — and they can make you look older than you are. Keep them happy by applying a rich cream or balm at least two or three times daily.
9. DO change up your routine. A few tweaks to your usual skincare regimen can make a big difference. In winter, your skin might feel better if you switch to a gentler, creamier facial cleanser. If you’re going skiing, apply an additional layer of serum before you hit the slopes to help reduce the likelihood of dry, irritated skin instead of your usual one.
10. DON’T wait until it’s too late. Why not try a proactive approach when winter is coming? Step up your hydration game before seasons change, and winter weather won’t feel so bad after all!