Chicago winters, biting chill, dreary rain, and breathtaking winds not only bring down our mood, but they can wreak havoc on our skin health as well. The dark days of these colder months can cause our skin to become dry, red, flaky, and inflamed. But how can you keep your complexion luminous and plump throughout the winter?
Here we reveal tried-and-true practices that will keep your complexion healthy and radiant all winter long.
1. Use SPF
Winter is not the time to stop using sunscreen; in fact, it may be the time to use it more. Although temperatures drop significantly, the sun still shines and can cause extreme damage to the skin. If there is snow out, it will reflect UV rays, much like sand on the beach. We recommend a reliable sunscreen with at least 30 SPF on exposed skin like the face, neck, and hands. This practice will reduce dry skin and fight the effects of aging.
2: Hydrate
Maintaining your water intake during the winter months is essential to your health. During the warmer months, we drink plenty of water, but as the temperatures drop, it’s easy to neglect hydration. Although perspiration decreases and losing moisture may not be as much of a concern, you should still be drinking at least a couple of liters a day.
3. Switch Up Your Moisturiser
Although increasing water intake is a good move, it won’t by itself save your skin from drying out during the winter. Freezing temperatures can cause much damage, so finding winter skincare products is a must. You should look to facial oils and hydrating serums that amp up your moisture levels and maintain your beautiful skin.
4. Exfoliate
Exfoliation during the winter months is equally important to both body and face. Many people experience flaky skin during the colder months, and the best way to eliminate this dead skin is to exfoliate. You should exfoliate to increase skin health at least once a week, but don’t overdo it. Too much exfoliation may cause its own problems.
A dry body brush is a great way to exfoliate before you bathe or shower. Long sweeping motions over your torso, legs, and arms will remove dry skin and keep the skin’s circulation active to increase blood flow to the skin and improve its overall health.
5. Dress accordingly.
This tip is critical—although painfully obvious. Although we tend to dress to impress, don’t let our fashion get in the way of wearing layers when it’s cold. Gloves, scarfs, long sleeves, and leggings, as well as sweaters, thermal undergarments, and coats, will protect your skin from the harsh winter environment.
For more information about how you can keep your skin looking its best and find out about transformative non-surgical and surgical treatment options, contact us today to schedule your consultation.