We may not experience a dramatic drop in temperature during the Winter season, but the air does become much drier than it is at other times of the year. As a result, some skin conditions may flare up. Dry air can aggravate dermatologic conditions like eczema, and it also presents an opportunity for the skin to age prematurely. Here, we offer a few simple strategies to make sure your skin sails through Winter without becoming dehydrated and irritated.
Water and Oil DO Mix
You may not be able to get drops of oil to dissolve in water, but that doesn’t mean that water and oil are not good companions for your skin. Research suggests that oil is an excellent moisturizer, which means it may be a better option for dry winter skin than a standard emollient cream. The best way to pair water and oil together is to add several tablespoons of vitamin E oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil to bath water. A few drops of lavender essential oil can also be good for the skin – and your senses. Oil is also an optimal after-shower moisturizer that can be layered on top of damp skin to hold in moisture.
Think in Layers
During the Winter season, we have a greater tendency to layer clothing so we can stay warm indoors and out. Our skin can benefit from the same strategy. Layering a light-weight moisturizing cream over a serum can provide your skin with readily available nutrients without leaving you feeling greasy. After moisturizing, a hydrating mist can be used to keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Ingredients for Gorgeous Skin
Seasonal changes call for a change in skincare ingredients, so now is a great time to think about what you’re putting on your skin. During colder, drier seasons, ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, mineral oil, glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid attract and hold moisture.
Be Generous
Dry air continually leaches moisture from the skin, including the lips. To combat this, it is necessary to be extra generous with moisturizing products. Now is not the time to skimp; pack it on in a way that is comfortable for you, and do so as many times a day as necessary to keep your skin soft and supple. One way to make sure your skin is getting what it needs is to place tubs and bottles of emollient lotion in visible locations such as your desk, nightstand, and coffee table.
In our Sonterra and La Casita offices in San Antonio, we offer several beauty treatments that can boost your skin’s ability to absorb nourishing products. Our team can also help you identify medical-grade skincare products that are suitable for your unique needs. Contact us today at 210-692-3000 (Sonterra) or 210-370-9995 (La Casita) for better skin tomorrow.