Fight Winter Skin: Stay Smooth and Hydrated for a Springtime Glow in January

Here in Florida, winter doesn’t take much of a toll on delicate skin; Local concerns are focused more on sun damage. But I often have clients who migrate north or have spent much of their lives trying to hold back the effects of New York and Chicago winters, which are often accompanied by dry indoor air, smog, and day-to-day stress.

No matter where my clients come from, seasonal skin care presents challenges, and we’re all searching for ways to keep skin protected and hydrated under changing conditions. Here are a few general skin care tips that can help:

1. Skin produces natural oils that protect and hydrate better than any available product. So let these oils do their work. Wash your face with water, never soap. To remove makeup, use gentle cleanser, but don’t scrub, and don’t rub your face aggressively to dry it. Just pat with a soft cloth.
2. Skin thrives on organic, plant-based nutrients, not harsh chemicals. The delicate skin cells of the face also respond well to retinol, or concentrated vitamin A. Look for skin products that contain actual retinol, not derivatives like retinyl or retinyl palmitate.
3. For the sake of your skin, try to limit sleepless nights, hectic scheduling, and excessive alcohol consumption. Eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, carrots, and colorful fruits.
4. Baby your skin when you can. Schedule regular facials, including a glycolic or vitamin C peel at least once every few months.  For daily moisturizing and protection, we recommend Aveda Balancing Infusion for dry skin, and the Aveda Botanical Kinetics Skin Care Starter Kit for dry-to-medium complexions.
5. No matter your age, where you live, or how the seasons affect you, always protect your skin from the sun. Use a daily moisturizer or foundation with sunscreen, and wear sunglasses with UV protection.