Winter is almost here and with it comes the prospect of dry skin. But there are ways to get your skin ready for winter’s cold, and they don’t require a trip to the dermatologist or a pricey department store. Here’s how to winterize your skin care routine:
- Keep it clean. The first step in any skin care regimen is simple—cleanse. Wash your face twice a day and use a gentle, non-drying cleanser. If you wear makeup, remove it before bed with an oil-based remover, like the ones by Bioderma or Shu Uemura.
- Protect your skin from the elements. Even if you’re not jumping in a freezing lake this winter, the cold temperatures can still suck moisture out of your skin. Keep some Vaseline on hand to moisturize at night and while you’re out. Apply before you head out into the cold air or in the morning when you wake up, as well as before bedtime.
- Switch up your moisturizer for extra protection from dryness. Instead of using a heavy cream every day, opt for an oil-free gel formula instead. Apply liberally as needed, but also during your usual morning and evening moisturizing routine and any time your skin feels dry.
- Balm up! Rich moisturizers with a creamy texture can lock in moisture and plump up skin cells — perfect for protecting against dryness, flaking and expanding those fine lines. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil and cocoa butter to seal in hydration while adding a protective layer overtop the skin.
- Exfoliating is key in winter because dead skin cells don’t slough off as easily when skin is dry. Be sure to gently scrub with a soft washcloth at least once every other day (or once a day if you’re prone to breakouts).
