HONOR YOUR SKIN: WINTER SKIN CARE TIPS

As the weather changes your skin care routine should too. Colder weather slows circulation and cell turnover, causing a build up of dead skin cells. This build up can affect the way your skin reflects light resulting in a dull looking complexion. Frequent heater use and hot showers can dry out your skin, and dehydrated skin makes fine lines and wrinkles appear more pronounced. Incorporate the tips below into your skin care regimen to ensure you have healthy beautiful skin this winter!

Exfoliate

Exfoliating your skin will help increase cell turnover as well as help other products you put on your skin absorb better. Increased cell turnover= glowing skin and better product absorption. I love, love Exfoliate by Dr. John Diaz Skin Care.

Moisturize

Now is the time to step up your moisturizing game. If you are using a light facial moisturizer switch to one that is a bit heavier. Avoid oils or creams if you are acne prone. I really like Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Moisture-Sensitive Skin. Moisturize your body as soon as you get out of the shower. Wear gloves and keep a small hand moisturizer with you to avoid getting painfully dry hands. Chapped lips are the worst. To avoid cracked dry lips I use Aquaphor. Added bonus: I think it even makes lips look fuller.

SPF

Although you may not see the sun much during the winter, its damaging ultraviolet rays are still there. So make sure that you wear SPF rain or shine. I love Protect Anti-Aging, Dr. John Diaz Skin Care. It is very moisturizing, contains SPF and has anti-aging benefits.

H2O and Omega 3s

Drink water! Keep in mind that drinking water alone will not keep your skin hydrated. However, increasing your consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids will work wonders for your skin. Fatty acids help maintain the health of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is responsible for keeping bad things out (like free radicals), letting nutrients in as well as maintaining the cells ability to retain water. When cells are hydrated, your skin will feel softer, look more supple and have less visible lines and wrinkles. Some foods that are rich in omega 3s are tuna, salmon, walnuts and flaxseed. Supplements will work too.

Take a Break From Abrasive Products

If your skin is feeling dry and sensitive make sure to use a creamy or hydrating cleanser instead of a gel cleanser. I love Cleanse Anti Aging, by Dr. John Diaz Skin Care. I also think Cetaphil is a good ultra gentle choice. If you are using an alcohol based toner switch to an alcohol-free hydrating one. If you are using prescription products like tretinoin or hydroquinone now might be a good time to take a break.

Get a Humidifier

I love sleeping with the heater on, but it can make my skin very dry. If you like turning up the heat at your home or office, getting a humidifier will help keep moisture in the air as well as combat the drying affects of central heating on your skin.