Winter is hard on skin. Right about now, we’ve seen the dry air and harsh wind sapping moisture and vitality from our skin. Whether this is on our face, our hands or even our feet, many of us are seeing cracking, chapping, and irritation.
Our skin is the largest organ of our body and it is very important to keeping us healthy, so now is the time to take action to minimize winter skin problems. First, even though they may feel great, don’t take long hot showers. Hot showers strip skin of its natural moisturizing lipids. Instead, take a short, warm shower; pat your skin almost dry, then put on a good moisturizer while skin is still damp. Don’t forget a super-emollient lotion for hands, heels, or anywhere else – the skin covers the entire body, not just the face!

Because the sun is very low in the sky during winter and it doesn’t throw off much heat, most people think they don’t need sunscreen but be sure to wear a makeup or moisturizer with SPF 15 on your face throughout the winter. Don't forget your lips; wear lip balm or lipstick with sunscreen.

If you are using a product with tretinoin, or are undergoing face treatments like dermabrasion or glycolic peels, it is particularly important that you wear sunscreen as all of these make you more likely to sustain sunburn. During winter months, you may also have to cut back on certain face treatments such as those using products which slough off some of the skin such as alpha-hydroxy acids, as they may exacerbate dry, irritated skin.

Humidify, humidify, humidify. If you don't have a humidifying system with your heat, consider buying a humidifier. If you use a wood stove, you can always put pots of water or tea kettles filled with water on top to help humidify the air. Most importantly is the humidity we take within, so drink lots and lots of fluids and avoid caffeine, or too much alcohol as both of these can further dehydrate you which will show on your skin.

Finally, consider pampering yourself during these dark dreary months with a customized facial or body treatment, such as a Silk Peel dermalinfusion treatment, a body hydrating treatment, or just a customized facial and decollete program that will make you glow, even in the dull light of winter. The specialists at PEACE OF MIND, The Spa at BSC will be happy to help you, just call 716-631-1516.