The weather isn’t quite frightful yet, but soon it will be.  And although the fire is delightful, heating systems are being cranked and drying out your skin.  So get it winter-ready now.

I’m not just talking to the ladies, but the gents as well.  You don’t have to be plagued by dry, itchy winter skin, here are some nourishing tips to keep your skin looking hot in the freezing cold.

Cleanse

A proper cleansing both morning and night removes the excess sweat, oil and bacteria that have built up over the past few hours.  Ladies, if you wear makeup everyday, this is even more essential.  Find a cleanser formulated for your particular skin type:  dry, normal, oily or sensitive.  Not sure what your type is?  Ask for the advice of a professional like an esthetician or your favourite beauty advisor.  The drier air from indoor heating systems coupled with the harsh cold air outside tends to make everyone’s skin a little drier.  So even if you’re oily, make sure your cleanser won’t over strip and dry out your skin.

Moisturize

After you’ve cleansed, make sure to replenish the skin with some soothing hydration.  Remember, we’re made up of 80% water – it’s essential to our health.  Now, I know I don’t need to convince my dry-skinned readers, but for the oilier types, there’s a misconception that moisturizers just make you oilier.  Actually, the opposite is true.  Moisturizers add moisture or water to the skin, not necessarily oil.  To be sure of that, choose a moisturizer that’s oil-free.  A good balance of oil and moisture (water) will actually help to regulate the oil production in your skin.  That’s why skin specialists are always encouraging us to drink lots of water.  It flushes out impurities that can cause skin irritation and acne, and replenishes much-needed moisture.  Be sure to moisturize day and night, and not just your face, but your entire body.

Protect

I know we’re overwhelmed with information about sun production in the summer, but did you know we need it 365 days a year?!  The sun may not be as strong in the cooler months, but it’s long-range effects can be just as damaging.  If you enjoy outdoor activities such as skating, skiing, tubing, etc., then you need to be extra diligent.  The reflective glare off the snow is not just hard on your eyes, but your skin as well.

Exfoliate

To help rid yourself of any dull, dry or flaky skin, exfoliate your skin once or twice a week in the evening in place of your cleanser.  Exfoliants come in many different forms:

• Scrubs are very common and effective.  Just be sure not to use them on open scratches or wounds as it won’t allow them to heal properly.  Also avoid them on an acne breakout as it can spread the infection.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Retinol and other anti-aging ingredients – rather than manually removing the dead layer of skin like scrubs do, these ingredients do it for you.  A caution to sensitive skins as these ingredients could be over-stimulating.
• Don’t like too many products?  A simple washcloth or body scrubbing sponge will yield the same effect.  Be sure to find a facial washcloth or exfoliating sponge for your face – they’re softer in texture and gentler on more delicate facial skin.

Our skin needs to last us a lifetime.  Although it naturally rejuvenates itself, as we age that process slows down.  So, a good solid skin care routine can help you withstand the elements and keep it looking younger and fresher, longer.