With the freshly snow dusted trees and crisp cold air, it’s undoubtedly that time of year again. Winter is here, and that means that so is dry skin. My skin gets so dry in the winter time to no avail. Every year I would get peeling, dull skin and no matter how much moisturizer I used, I’d be looking dried out each winter. It turns out, I had no idea what the right products for me were. On top of that, I was completely uneducated about my skin and had no knowledge on proper skin care. Recently, I’ve become much more focused on and passionate about caring for my health. With that, I realized that skin care is a huge part of my well being as well.
After asking tons of questions to skin care professionals and updating my products, my skin has honestly transformed. I finally have healthy glowing skin that I thought was impossible to get. Getting a winter glow can be a trying process, so I’ve listed my favourite tips to help you achieve hydrated, healthy skin this winter.
USE AN SPF TINTED MOISTURIZER
This has been a game changer for me. I had no idea that I should still be using SPF products in the winter. My Esthetician reminded me that our skin still gets sun exposure in the winter, and that an oil free moisturizer is a life saver. I currently use Alumier’s Clear Shield SPF Tinted Moisturizer and I love it. I use less makeup because it works as a foundation, and it leaves my skin glowing and so soft after I use it. Their products are Paraben free and can be on the pricier side, but are absolutely worth it in my opinion.
EXFOLIATE 3 TIMES A WEEK
When my Esthetician asked me how often I exfoliated, I couldn’t even remember the last time I had done it. I didn’t really know what it actually meant to exfoliate. I’ve seen a massive difference since I started exfoliating my skin. It’s important to exfoliate your skin to rid yourself of that dull, dead skin you gain through the winter. I’m currently using a liquid exfoliater from Alumier that doubles as a toner. You should only be exfoliating 3 times a week to keep from irritating your skin and removing the natural oils from your face.
BOOK YOURSELF A TREATMENT
Now, I know these can be expensive and so some people might not want to dish out the price for a treatment which is totally fine! For me, personally, I feel that these treatments have made such a difference to my skin and have been worth the price. I don’t book treatments too often (one every few months) because of the cost but when I do, I go for a HydraFacial or anything that focuses on moisturizing the skin. I have extremely sensitive skin so I find that once every few months is enough for me. If you do book a facial, make sure to ask your Esthetician tons of questions as they are extremely knowledgeable and happy to help!
MOISTURIZE EVERY NIGHT BEFORE BED
This may sound obvious, but I was never consistent with my night time skin routine, and girl did it show. Consistency is key to healthy glowing skin in the winter time. After you remove your makeup and cleanse your face, moisturize before you head to sleep. I use Collin’s moisturizer for dehydrated skin, as well as the eye contouring gel. If you’re on a budget, the Yeouth Day & Night Cream* is a great alternative. This moisturizer is Paraben, Sulfate and Fragrance free. I was gifted this product and have been using it for the last few weeks and am well impressed with it!
HAVE MAKE UP FREE DAYS
Ever since I started going for treatments and caring for my skin, I find I use a lot less makeup. For me, makeup has always, and continues to help me feel confident and beautiful. There’s nothing wrong with loving makeup, and I’m definitely not saying to stop wearing it at all. I love experimenting with makeup and finding the best looks for myself. I’ve also learned to love my skin without makeup, which has been a lifelong journey. When you can and feel comfortable, have a makeup free day (or even a half day) to let your skin breathe. It’s so refreshing to end your day without having to remove your makeup, and it’s a great break for your skin.
STAY HYDRATED
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. I can’t say this enough. Drink water throughout the day to keep yourself and your skin hydrated. If you’re like me and don’t enjoy drinking water, add cucumber, lemon, or fruit to give your water that extra taste. Drink enough water so that you feel hydrated and aren’t constantly feeling thirsty during the day.
CHECK YOUR PRODUCTS AND THEIR INGREDIENTS
It’s important to know what’s in the products that you use for your skin. After all, our skin absorbs these products- so we should be vigilant about what we’re using. I highly recommend using the EGW Skin Product and Ingredients Database where you can type in your product’s name and find out if there are any hazardous ingredients. If you can’t find your product, type in a few of the ingredients to get an idea of their hazardous score, and whether they’re ingredients of concern.
What are some of your tips to keep your skin glowing in the winter? How do you maintain healthy skin?
