Much of the U.S. received a chilling dose of winter this weekend. Now that I have a puppy, I can’t hibernate in my apartment through the frigid days when they hit New York City. Instead, I’m out braving the weather and have realized how harsh the low temperatures are on my own skin. Winter is here, and it’s time to help clients update their regimen to keep skin protected and healthy. Here’s what Repêchage recommends for winter skincare.
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Morning and night, after cleansing, toning, and applying serum, layer on moisturizer. Although you should be using a moisturizer year round, it is especially important to not skip this step during the winter months. A moisturizer is necessary to help add moisture into your skin and keep water from evaporating from your skin.
- Pay special attention to hands. Between washing your hands, blasting the heat, and being outside, you may notice your hands are one of the most affected areas during the winter. Always wear gloves when you’re outside and keep a fragrance-free hand cream with you so you can re-apply throughout the day.
- Choose fragrance-free products. Although fragrances can make some products smell delicious, they can be irritating if your skin is sensitive.
- Lower the heat. High heat not only leads to drier skin, but drier lips, nose, and throat. While driving, showering, or spending time indoors, keep the heat at a low setting you are comfortable with and layer on your clothing for warmth. Consider investing in a humidifier which will help replace moisture that is lost in the air.
- Wear protective clothing. This includes heavy jackets, a hat, scarf, and gloves. This will help shield your skin from the elements, including wind, which can contribute to dryness.
- Don’t over-exfoliate. Don’t skip out on exfoliating altogether during the winter months because you still want to remove dead skin cell build up that can make your skin look flaky. Ask your skin care professional how often you should be exfoliating, or cut back to once a week.
- Use moisturizing treatments. This includes at the spa and at-home. Consider face masks that help moisturize the skin, like an overnight cream mask, or a chocolate face mask that contains cocoa and coconut oil, two ingredients that help make the skin feel soft and smooth.
- Eat smarter and don’t hibernate. Although the wintertime means sweatshirts and clothing to cover everything up, encourage clients to keep up healthy eating and exercise habits. Nutrition, exercise, and a skincare routine are all important for maintaining healthy skin.
- Wear sunscreen. It doesn’t matter what time of year it is or how cold it is outside. Especially if clients like to hit the slopes this time of year, protecting skin is a must.
- Regular Spa Treatments. If the winter always seems to be a rough time for clients and their skin, make sure they keep up a regular routine of facials and other services. A licensed esthetician can analyze skin and guide them to the right skincare choices for the winter.