Winter Skin Fixes

Code Red

“Switching temperatures too abruptly (imagine walking into the ski lodge after coming off of the slopes) can distend capillaries, leaving the skin looking red and ruddy,” says Gina Mari, aesthetician and skincare expert. “A redness-reducing cream will quell the problem.”

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Soap Opera

“Using less soap is very helpful in winter months because cleansers strip your natural oils, which help lubricate and maintain your natural moisture,” says Dr. Neal Schultz, founder of DermTV.com. “You should certainly cleanse the personal areas where you perspire, as well as your face and hands, daily,” he says, “but arms, legs, chest and back really only require soap once a week."

Heat Is On

Gina says that cranking up the heat during cold months can dehydrate skin. “Be mindful of how long you keep the heat on,” she says. “And though the idea of a long, hot shower or bath can be really enticing, too much hot water will add to the feeling of dry, itchy skin.” A soothing cream will be a calming force.

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Pan Handling

Dr. Schultz says that if you have old-fashioned freestanding radiators in your bedroom, put a large area pan of water on it every night. “When the steam heat comes on, it causes evaporation of some of the water, which helps to ensure adding moisture to the air.”

Tone It Down

“Immediately after exfoliation, use a hydrating toner and then immediately apply moisturizer,” says Gina.

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What a Scrub

Gina says you should exfoliate at least two times a week to keep skin soft and supple during these dryer months. “I would recommend a gentle scrub and perhaps a weekly enzyme peel.”

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Moisture Maker

“In dry, cold winter months, humidifiers are helpful in the bedroom to help add humidity to the air,” says Dr. Schultz. “It allows your skin to absorb the additional moisture in the air while you sleep.”

Ray of Light

“Even in the winter months, if you are outside, don’t forget sunblock!” says Gina. “The snow can act like a giant reflecting board.” This one is one of her favorites.

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Spa Service

Gina says one of her most valuable tips is to simply drink water! “I love to chop up lemon, cucumber, mint and a slice of orange and make my very own spa water at home,” she says.

Oxy Proxy

“The most important thing to do for your skin is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!” says Gina. “At my office we place a strong emphasis on oxygen therapy treatments. We infuse the skin using a combination of vitamins A, C and E, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and green tea. The skin is left dewy and hydrated, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

Shower Power

Dr. Schultz says to take shorter showers and baths in winter. “Make sure that the temperature of the water is not high, because hot water will open up pores, make you lose moisture and will further dry you out.”

Wind Breaker

“Make sure you apply a skin type-appropriate moisturizer to your face every morning before you go out to help protect it from cold dry wind,” says Dr. Schultz.

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Lip Smacker

“If your lips get chapped or dry out, don’t lick them, which will make it worse. Rather, apply a lip balm containing either petrolatum or beeswax with an SPF of between 15 and 30,” says Dr. Schultz.

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Heavyweight Fighter

“Make sure that you use a medium-to-heavyweight moisturizer on your entire body as soon as you pat dry after your bath or shower,” says Dr. Schultz. “Apply it immediately to your arms, legs and trunk to help lock in the moisture that you picked up during bathing.”

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Extra Exfoliation

“In-office glycolic exfoliations are great for winter because they help remove dry, flaky skin more effectively so that your moisturizers can penetrate better and help to seal in more moisture,” says Dr. Schultz.

Something Fishy

Fish oil is packed with Omega 3 essential fatty acids which are very good for your skin, especially in the winter. Pop them in the morning with your vitamins to help ease your dry, flaky skin.