Although summer is the season for baring skin, you need to take some time to look after your skin this winter season.
Believe it or not, winters can be hazardous for the skin. Even winter exposure to the sun can cause skin pigmentation, UV damage, and skin dehydration, and these conditions followed by exposure to dry winds and overzealous office environments can damage skin cells and lead to premature aging.
The good news is you can knock of these problems and maintain a youthful glow throughout the season by taking the following measures:
Apply sunscreen
Contrary to the popular belief that winter sun can’t tan or damage you, while it’s weaker than in summertime it is really is still a threat and even indoor tan is not without risks. The sun’s ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B (UVA and UVB) rays penetrate the atmosphere and plays a major role in conditions such as skin aging and skin cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
To protect your skin from these harmful rays, choose a sunscreen at least offering SPF15 and apply when commuting in your car, going to and coming back from work. Bump it up to SPF30 for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and running and reapply every 2 hours. For the best protection against UV rays, complement the sunscreen with sun-protective accessories and clothing – and don’t forget reflection off snow and water just makes it more intense.
You could also use sunscreen pads at home; they’re similar to cleansing cloths, but include SPF. Sunscreen pads make it convenient to cover your hairline, your face, and your ears, which are often neglected during conventional application and vulnerable to skin damage.
Exfoliate
Your body is shedding skin cells at an astonishing rate. They’ll just keep sitting on your skin making it look dry if you don’t get rid of them. Exfoliation removes dead skin debris to prevent dryness and improve hydration from moisturizers and lotions.
Rejuvenation treatments should be used to store the health and balance of your skin. Be sure to use treatments such as nurturing masks and exfoliations at least 1-2 times a week. Scrub your knee and elbows with a slice of lemon topped with sugar every other day to remove tan and dead skin cells.
Microdermabrasion is another way to exfoliate dry skin cells. Americanlaser.com points out that this noninvasive procedure removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells, revealing your own healthier skin underneath. It’s a safe treatment that encourages the production of an underlying layer of skin cells with more elastin and collagen. Also, it helps in better absorption of your skin care products.
Moisturize – oil free
It may be tempting to forgo a good moisture during colder months but your skin still needs moisturizer.
The tip to finding the perfect moisturizer is to look for options that are mattifying or oil-free. Such moisturizers will help in keeping your skin nourished and hydrated without making you feel sick or greasy. The best feature? The top heat-friendly moisturizers can also do double-duty with anti-aging, acne and SPF UV skin protection.
If you have extra-sensitive skin, look for moisturizers with no irritating parabens or artificial fragrances. Instead, look for offerings with ingredients like Vitamin E, antioxidants, mixed oil extracts and shea butter; they will help your skin retain moisture and look ultra-renewed.
Keep hydrated
Moisturizing will hydrate your skin, but you also need to hydrate it from inside by drinking ample amount of water each day. Stay hydrated by carrying a large water bottle into your beach bag, handbag or college bag. Drink water regularly every hour throughout the day, refilling when necessary. Don’t wait until you feel like taking a sip – feeling thirsty is a sign that you are already dehydrated.
A refreshing way to begin your day is to add squeeze fresh lemon juice into a glass of water. It will give you a boost of energy, hydrate your body and promote bright skin throughout summers.
Note: if you are the one for caffeinated beverages, you should triple the amount of H20 you drink every day.
27 April 2014
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