Winter Skincare

Embracing Hydration and Gentle Care

As the crispness of autumn gives way to the chill of winter, many of us find ourselves in a battle against dry, flaky skin. While our summer skincare routines may have emphasized lightweight formulations and sun protection, winter calls for a change. In this article, we'll explore how to effectively transition your skincare routine into the chillier and drier winter season.

winter skincare

Understanding Winter Skin Needs

Even in the Sunshine State, during winter, the air becomes drier, and indoor heating systems can intensify this lack of moisture. This combination can lead to increased dryness, irritation, and exacerbate conditions like eczema or psoriasis. To combat these issues, it's essential to make intentional changes to how we care for our skin.

1. Moisturize from the Inside Out

While topical products are crucial, we mustn't overlook the importance of hydration from within. As temperatures drop, we may instinctively drink less water, but staying properly hydrated is vital for maintaining skin elasticity and moisture levels. 

  • Increase Water Intake: Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. If you find it challenging during colder months, consider herbal teas or warm water with lemon to keep it interesting.
  • Incorporate Hydrating Foods: Fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon, can help hydrate your body. Soups and broths are also excellent choices during winter.
  • Limit Dehydrating Factors: Reduce the intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration. 
winter skincare

2. Less Frequent and Gentler Exfoliation

As skin becomes drier in winter, gentle exfoliation is necessary to remove dead skin cells. We must be careful to do this without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Harsh scrubbing can lead to irritation and weaken the skin carrier, increasing dryness and redness.

Choose the Right Products: Opt for chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) that work gently to dissolve dead skin cells. Avoid physical scrubs with harsh particles that can cause small tears in the skin.
Less is More: Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week during winter. This frequency balances the removal of dead skin while allowing the skin to maintain its barrier function.
Be Mindful of Sensitivity: If you notice increased redness or irritation after exfoliating, reduce the frequency or switch to milder formulations.

winter skincare

3. Lock in Moisture

Effective hydration is the cornerstone of winter skincare. The right products can deeply nourish the skin, creating a protective barrier against the harsh elements outside.

  • Thicker Moisturizers: Transition from lightweight lotions to thicker creams or ointments. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, which help attract and retain moisture.
  • Incorporate Oils: Facial oils, like jojoba or rosehip oil, can offer an added layer of moisture. Applying oil over your moisturizer can help seal in hydration, providing an extra protective barrier.
  • Use Humidifiers: Consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture back into the air. This simple addition can significantly improve your skin’s hydration levels during dry winter months.
winter skincare

4. Adjust Your Prescriptions

If you're using topical retinoids like tretinoin, it's crucial to reassess how they fit into your winter routine. While these products are excellent for managing acne and fine lines, their effectiveness can be compromised by the dry conditions of winter, leading to irritation or excessive dryness.

  • Evaluate Frequency: Consider using tretinoin less frequently during winter. Instead of nightly application, try using it every other night or only a few times a week to allow your skin to adjust.
  • Sandwich Technique: When applying tretinoin, you can use a sandwich technique by applying a mild moisturizer before and after your tretinoin application. This strategy helps minimize irritation while still achieving the benefits of the retinoid.
  • Consult a Professional: If you're unsure how to adjust your prescriptions, book an appointment with OnSpot Dermatology and we would be glad to walk you through it and make any suggestions and give personalized advice on how to manage your skincare routine throughout the colder months. 

Navigating Winter Skin Challenges

Transitioning your skincare routine for winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on oral hydration, gentle exfoliation, topical hydration, and wisely adjusting your prescriptions, you can keep your skin healthy, moisturized, and glowing!

Image from iOS

Kim Delaney, APRN

About the Author

Kim, a board-certified nurse practitioner, began her nursing journey with a BSN from Palm Beach Atlantic University, serving as an RN in the United States Air Force and later the pediatric ICU. She furthered her education with a master's degree from Georgetown University. Driven by her passion for dermatology, she completed a post-master's dermatology certification at Florida Atlantic University. Kim brings expertise in general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. She is an active member in the National Academy of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners and she balances her professional dedication by spending time with family and traveling.

MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this site is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.  OnSpot Dermatology is not providing personalized medical assessments or recommendations for individual cases in this post. The content presented here is based on general knowledge and should not be considered a substitute for a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.  The use of information provided is solely at your own risk. OnSpot Dermatology and the author make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, or usefulness of the information presented.  By reading this post, you agree to the above disclaimer and understand that any action you take based on the information provided is at your own discretion.  If you have specific questions or concerns about your skin or any medical condition, please consult a healthcare professional for a personalized assessment and recommendations.