Secret Tips to Winter Proof Skin

The winter season is brutal to our skin, especially those of us who live on the east coast. Beautiful skin can last all year long; you just have to have the right tools and know what to do with them. Here are some secret strategies to keep your skin glowing from late fall all the way into spring.

Moisturizing Cleanser

Dozens of face and body cleansers have moisturizing properties that clean the skin while keeping it soft and supple. Try using a cleanser with moisturizer that treats common problems, such as dry, oily or acne prone skin. If you already have a favorite cleanser that doesn’t moisturize, try adding coconut oil to the mix, as it has both cleansing and toning properties.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is great for the skin year round, but during the winter is all the more important to clear out dead skin and make room for new cells. A secret trick is to use your favorite loofah, sponge or pouf before getting in the shower or bath. Rubbing it over the skin while dry will loosen skin cells. After the skin is wet, continue the process and you will notice a big difference in your skin.

Toner

Despite the fact that most skin care lines seem to include unnecessary toners, during the winter an alcohol-free toner with natural ingredients like witch hazel or rosewater keep the skin clean while holding moisture in.

‘Non-Traditional’ Moisturizers

Natural oils are great for protecting the skin during winter months. Coconut, jojoba, olive and almond oil are just a few of the varieties you can find at a local health market. Adding them to your skin after a shower or bath will guard against cracks in the skin, especially on the feet and hands.

Exercise

Since the skin is the largest organ of the body, the best thing we can do for it is to keep it in shape, especially in the winter. Exercise keeps the skin elastic and able to fight off everyday toxins, while keeping you fit from the inside out.

Heat

Saunas and steam rooms give the skin a nice workout. They also help expel toxins and irritants in the skin. If your personal sauna and steam room are on the fritz, go to a local gym whose membership includes these amenities. Your skin will feel refreshed and have a soft glow to boot.

Protection

Nothing hurts the skin more than too much exposure to the sun, no matter what season it is. Using moisturizers and make-up that include at least an SPF of 15 will help guard against over exposure to the sun’s rays while keeping dark spots, burns and cracks in the skin to a minimum.

Bundle Up

Staying warm is a must in the winter, not only to keep from getting sick but to keep the skin from losing too much moisture. Wool, down and cashmere are your best bets, but cotton shirts and sweaters are always at the top of my list.


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