Winter is here!

How to Achieve Healthy Skin This Winter

For those of us in the Northeast and our friends in the Midwest, we have already begun to feel the long, cold and dry days of winter.  This weather can wreak havoc on our skin leaving it dry, dull and flaky. Your skin is an extremely important part of your overall health, and not keeping it healthy can cause a big problem especially during this time of year. The best thing to do is to keep your skin hydrated.

Cold weather, harsh winter wind, indoor heat, and hot showers and baths with harsh cleansers all rob air of moisture, therefore; contributing to our dull winter skin. To combat these forces and keep skin looking youthful and smooth, I gathered a few tips for you to try out this winter.

 

Wash in Lukewarm Water

Hot showers and baths feel good this time of year, but when you wash your face and hands try to use lukewarm water to avoid removing oils from your skin.

Choose a Moisturizing Cleanser

Cleansers can be extremely drying to the skin. Use natural hydrating moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, olive and jojoba oils, almond oil, and aloe. Our Oatmeal & Goat’s Milk soap uses sweet almond oil to keep your skin healthy and protected. Enriched with aloe and avocado butter, our Chrysanthemum soap will soothe and rehydrate your skin restoring its moisture and glow.

 

 Moisturize Immediately Afterwards

Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle near the bathtub, shower stall, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.

Protect

Don’t forget the sunscreen!  Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so apply a safe option like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to any exposed areas.

Drink

We tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks like cocoa and tea, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from the inside, out. A little warm water with lemon is very refreshing and hydrating at the same time.

Exfoliate

Moisture can’t get in if there are too many dead cells blocking the way, therefore; exfoliating body cleansers are extremely helpful in the winter months. Our line of exfoliating soaps is made up of natural ingredients that eliminate dead skin cells. We also have gentle exfoliating soaps that can be used by even those of you with sensitive skin. Exfoliate your body once a week, especially your hands since they are getting the most exposure to all of the elements during the winter. Follow immediately with a moisturizer to truly keep that smooth healthy skin.

Avoid Toxins, Specifically Allergens and Irritants

If you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, you should avoid allergens and irritants that may trigger a flare up. Winter skin is more fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics, like wool, and chemical-laden detergents.

 

Hydrate From the Inside Out

Eating foods high in water content can help hydrate your skin from the inside out. Try apples, oranges, kiwi, and watery veggies like celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, and carrots.

 

Keep warm!

Sage