
Beware This Winter—Cold Weather Activities Can Cause Skin Worries
While walking in a winter wonderland, strong gusts, below-freezing temperatures, and precipitation can be a complete nightmare for your skin. In some states, January comes with tons of snow and record-cold weather, especially if you’re located in the Midwest (looking at you, St. Louis and Chicago). Hours spent outside, engaged in all-out snowball fights, snowman competitions, or sledding can be exciting, bringing out your inner child. However, it can also bring out the worst in your skin, if it isn’t protected.
Some of us may have the pleasure of enjoying the outdoor elements on an adventurous ski trip. On the other hand, some are reaping the consequences of heavy snowfall, by shoveling the driveway. Regardless, after prolonged endurance of Old Man Winter’s wrath, you may look in the mirror and notice more than just rosy cheeks and a bright red nose--be cautious of the dangers of winter windburn.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Winter Windburn?
Dryness and peeling, stinging and burning, and increased sensitivity are all signs of winter windburn. This is a little-known skin condition caused by extensive exposure to freezing-cold, windy weather. The combination of blustery breezes and low humidity strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it brittle and dull—we know; that’s so not the look we’re going for. Still, no need to fret! There are plenty of winter skincare tips worth trying and ways to avoid winter windburn, and we’re going to dish the details.
Prioritize Skin Barrier Protection
The first step to avoid winter windburn is to boost your skin’s moisturization with rich, occlusive face creams with restorative ingredients like ceramides and shea butter. Products like these create a protective layer that’s more resilient. Oils infused with vitamins e and c are strongly encouraged as well, as they boost skin’s elasticity, give it a silky-smooth texture, and a dewy glow.
Other ingredients that enhance your skin’s barrier are humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These boost hydration as well, which aids your skin in its battle against harsh weather. As we know, hydration and moisturization go hand in hand, so we need one just as much as the other for the best results.
Your skin’s barrier is like a knight in shining armor that fends off dryness and environmental toxins while remaining soft and supple. However, once the skin’s barrier has been compromised, it’s more vulnerable to moisture loss and external irritants. That’s why preventing windburn during winter sports or even before you head out to run errands is worth the hassle. Protecting skin from cold weather is extremely vital to its health—the same way you bundle up before venturing out into the cold, you have to take necessary precautions to safeguard your skin.
Hydrate Your Skin From Within
Speaking of hydration, the best way to fortify your body and your skin is to drink lots of water—your dermis will be much more vibrant and healthy. This may seem like it goes without saying, but you’d be surprised at how much of a difference it makes to stay hydrated, yet it’s rarely ever people’s drink of choice. Water is a healing, restorative element that sadly, 75% of Americans just don’t get enough of. We realize cold weather and a nice, hot cup of cocoa or coffee go together perfectly, but make sure you’re not neglecting your water intake, especially if you’re planning on going out in the cold.
Avoid Harsh Skincare Products
Choose a skincare routine that’s gentle and nourishing, not one that’s packed with alcohol, fragrances, and chemicals, as these can worsen the skin’s condition. A little TLC goes a long way, so look for gentle cleansers, natural ingredients, and only use chemicals when it’s100% necessary. Too many products and brash abrasives do more harm than good, especially in the colder months when your skin needs extra nourishment. It’s great to exfoliate a couple of times a week, but the gentler the better. The bottom line is the best skincare products don’t have to be heavy-duty. They can be safe and essential and still produce beautiful results.
Moisturize Your Lips…Often
Your lips are quite vulnerable as they have the thinnest layer of skin on your whole body. Because of this, when they lack proper moisture, they can become severely chapped, creating pain and discomfort caused by the skin cracking and splitting. Protecting the soft and fragile tissue underneath the surface requires nourishing, penetrating products, preferably emollients, such as petroleum jelly or Aquaphor. That being said, you can never go wrong by applying lip care liberally.
Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Ultraviolet rays from the sun are still as strong as ever, especially when they’re reflecting off blankets of bright white snow. Unfortunately, some are misled by the myth that sunscreen is only for hot, sunny weather. In reality, sunscreen is for everyday use, whenever you plan on setting foot outside. Applying SPF in the winter not only protects from the sun’s harmful rays, but it also prevents hyperpigmentation and keeps acne scars and dark spots from getting worse.
The Only Facial Can Rescue You From the Woes of Windburn
If you’re noticing your skin needs major damage control, we urge you to book an appointment with one of our amazing estheticians. We take pleasure in breathing life back into your skin, whether its experiencing stubborn flakiness or sensitivity. Our professionals listen to your concerns and address your needs with care and expertise. Don’t let winter weather keep you indoors—take control of your skin’s health this season with The Only Facial.