By Tatjana Dzamov |
Winter Skincare Essentials
The Comprehensive Guide To Winterizing Your Skin
As the winter months approach, it’s essential to adjust your skincare routine to protect your skin from the harsh and drying effects of cold weather — along with the heavy doses of UV rays that often get ignored. Winter can be particularly challenging for your skin due to the drop in temperature, low humidity levels and indoor heating systems.
We have created this Winter Skincare Essentials guide to help keep your skin healthy, radiant and comfortable this season!
What Are We Up Against?
Before we dive into the preparation steps, it’s important to understand the specific challenges that winter weather poses to your skin:
- Low Humidity: Cold air holds less moisture, leading to dry and dehydrated skin. Indoor heating systems can also further reduce humidity levels, exacerbating dryness.
- Harsh Winds: Strong winter winds can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to damage.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Going from cold outdoor temperatures to warm indoor environments can apply additional stress to your skin.
- Sun Exposure: While winter brings colder weather and less sunlight, it doesn’t mean your skin is safe from sun damage. Harmful UV rays will still be out during these overcast winter days.
- Oil Production: Our skin’s natural oil production lessens during the winter, leaving us more susceptible to certain types of damage.
Let’s discuss the steps you can take today to prepare your skin for the cold months to come.
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
Even in the winter, UV rays can harm your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Focus on areas like your face, neck, and hands, which are often exposed.
Hydration is Mission-Critical
Proper hydration begins on the inside, which means you have to remember to drink 8 – 10 glasses of water to keep your skin looking healthy. The next time you step out into the cold air, watch the condensation form from your breath — this helps remind us just how much water we lose just by living our lives! Also, we tend to crave coffee more in the winter and cocktails during parties, so remember to keep your alcohol and caffeine intake in check.
Our experts recommend using a humidifier in your home to maintain indoor humidity levels and choosing a medical-grade moisturizer with added hydration features, such as hyaluronic acid.
“Adding some fresh-squeezed lemon to remineralize your water can boost immune function, provide some much-needed Vitamin C and even keep us from over-indulging during those holiday parties. We should also supplement with Omega3, Resveratrol and plant silica to fight back against free radicals in the body and give our skin an extra boost.”
-Tatjana Dzamov, LME
An Insider Tip For Overnight Moisturizing
Apply a generous amount of rich moisturizing agents such as Environ’s Derma-Lac Lotion with A, C, E Body Oil to the hands and feet, followed by the application of cotton gloves and socks before bedtime. This indulgent treatment allows the extremities to bask in a nourishing blend of emollients and vitamins while the body rejuvenates during the night. Overnight moisturization also serves as a remedy for countering the impact of dry nighttime conditions, including arid air, heaters and radiators.
For added relief from nocturnal dryness, consider using a cold-mist humidifier.
Be Gentle With Your Cleansing
Avoid harsh or overly drying cleansers. Opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser to remove impurities without stripping your skin of natural oils. Masking should be performed twice a week, as well. You may also consider using a cream or oil-based cleanser for extra moisture.
Exfoliate Strategically
Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, but do so less frequently than you normally would in the summer — twice a week is ideal. Use a gentle exfoliant with ingredients like glycolic acid or lactic acid to maintain the skin’s radiance. Be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as it can worsen dryness.
Get Essential Reinforcement From Professional Treatments
It pays off to get some added support from the pros! We highly recommend receiving a routine hydrating facial once every 6 – 8 weeks. This non-invasive treatment is designed specifically for winter-parched skin and involves the use of a lactic acid mask and vitamin infusions to restore the look and feel of deep moisturization.
Some Of Tatjana’s Recommended Skincare Products for Winter:
- Environ Derma Lac Lotion
- Environ ACE Body oil ( these two are used together)
- Environ Hydrating Oil Capsules ( mixed with a Moisturizer)
- Environ Hydrating Serum
- Environ Super Moisturizer
Protect Your Skin Barrier
Apply a rich and emollient moisturizer to seal in moisture and protect your skin’s barrier. Products that contain ceramides, shea butter or squalane can provide extra nourishment at this time. Use a thick layer of moisturizer before bedtime to repair your skin overnight.
Avoid Those Steaming Hot Showers
Hot showers may feel comforting in the cold, but they can strip your skin of natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water and limit shower time to prevent excessive drying. Also, try to only shower once a day and apply your moisturizing products right after to lock in their effects.
Dress To Protect
Wear breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or silk to avoid skin irritation. Don’t forget to cover up with scarves, gloves and hats when braving the cold!
Nutrition’s Impact On The Skin
A nourishing diet can work wonders for your skin. Our functional wellness experts advise patients to incorporate foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, as these can help combat dryness and inflammation. Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits and bell peppers, can boost collagen production and protect your skin from oxidative damage.
Don’t forget to load up on vitamin E from sources like almonds, sunflower seeds, and spinach, which acts as a natural moisturizer for your skin. Lastly, consider adding foods rich in antioxidants, like green tea, to help rejuvenate and repair skin cells. A balanced and nutrient-rich diet will not only support your skin’s health but also keep you glowing throughout the winter season!
Apply Special Care To Sensitive Areas
Pay extra attention to sensitive areas like your lips and under-eye skin, which are prone to chapping and dryness. Use a lip balm with SPF and a hydrating eye cream.
“Our skincare regimen needs to be tweaked during the winter and then again between the spring and summer. This means coming in and having your aesthetician personally change your products to best accommodate your skin for the winter.”
-Tatjana Dzamov, LME
Step Out Of The Cold & Walk Into The Season With Confidence
Winter can be tough on your skin, but with the right preparation and a well-thought-out skincare routine, you can keep it healthy, comfortable, and radiant throughout the colder months. Remember to focus on hydration, protection and a gentle approach to skincare — your skin will thank you as it glows even in the midst of winter’s chill.
Have additional questions about how you can optimize your routine for the season? We invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our esteemed skincare experts!
About The Author
Tatjana Dzamov is a senior medical aesthetician at Donaldson. As a founding pillar of our medspa, her expertise in a wide range of aesthetic treatments — from rejuvenating facials to precision microblading and beyond — is nothing short of remarkable. Her passion for skincare is evident in her unwavering dedication to her craft. Her commitment to enhancing her patients’ natural beauty and her extensive knowledge make her a standout professional in the world of medical aesthetics.
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