An expert’s guide to winter skincare
If we change wardrobes with the seasons, why shouldn’t we do the same with our skincare?
The perfect skincare routine boosts your skin's health year-round. As the seasons change, so should a few of your skincare products. The same lightweight cleanser and gels that your skin loved during the summer might not provide enough protection during the winter months. As the temperatures drop, your skin is exposed to further external irritants that can cause visible redness, irritation, premature aging, and even breakouts. In addition, dry air, frigid winds, indoor heaters, scarves, and face masks can all absorb moisture from your skin, wrecking its natural protective barrier.
To ensure that your skin is well protected this winter, it's time to swap out your summer skincare routine for a winter-approved one. Now, this doesn't mean that you have to plan an entire overhaul just yet. Luckily, you can develop a winter skincare routine with just a few simple swaps. First, determine how your skin adapts to the weather and notice where it may need a bit of extra help. Then adjust your products accordingly. If you are new to winter skincare, our Skin Health Experts are here to walk you through a few of the most common seasonal switches. From gentle cleansers to rich moisturizers, using products that protect your skin is crucial for achieving a seasonal glow all year round.
Step 1: Take a Gentler Approach to Cleansing
The foaming and bubbly cleansers you use during the summertime will not do your face any favors during the winter. While these types of cleaners work great to remove dirt and oil, they often contain sulfates that can dry your face rather than moisturize it. Instead, lock the moisture in this winter using our Micellar Detox. A gentle cleanser that will leave your skin thoroughly cleansed, without residues, while locking in the moisture and toning your skin so that it is ready for the following steps.
Step 2: Upgrade you Moisturizer
No matter your skin type, it's essential to moisturize your skin—especially during colder months. Our skin produces fewer natural oils during winter than it does in the summer, leading to dry skin, patches, and flaking. Upgrading your everyday moisturizer to something a little heavier will help lock in the oils that your skin produces and protect your natural skin barrier.
There are types of moisturizers depending on your skin type. If you have oily skin or feel like a rich moisturizer is too much during the day, use a light moisturizer in the morning and apply a thicker one during your PM skincare routine. The Energizing Detox Cream is an ideal light-weight moisturizer for the day, while our Intensive Global Cream is a richer formula that is perfect for those winter nights.
Step 3: Wear Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen during the winter may seem a bit futile. But even if you’re not experiencing sunny days or spending time directly under the sun’s rays, you’re still exposed to the winter sun daily, which can be just as strong. Applying sunscreen regularly and using a moisturizer that contains sunscreen will keep your skin protected from the sun and UV rays and ward off premature signs of aging.