OH, THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL....

Cold weather is no stranger to us in Canada and if you’re like me, you can’t stand it. Although it can be great for a lot of things: snowboarding, skiing, hockey of course, or just relaxing by a fireplace. (if you’re lucky enough to have one) But unfortunately it can also seriously damage your skin. Your skin seriously is affected during these cold months, as it being the largest organ on the human body is exposed to the chillness of Ol’ Man Winter. Falling temperatures, chilling winds, and overheating in your home can all work to dry out and crack your lips, face and body’s surface. With the long winter months ahead of us, you need to maintain your skin’s health, so here are some tips to help keep Jack Frost from nipping at you!

The key to keeping skin healthy in cold weather is to keep it hydrated. Cold air causes skin to dry and chap easily, as it has less moisture in it. To make up for this lack of hydration, you should moisturize twice as much as you do, during warmer months. Consider purchasing a humidifier to replace moisture in your home’s air.

Now like most, I enjoy taking relaxing hot showers. It’s even more tempting on a cold winter’s day and seems like the greatest idea, but it’s not. You should keep your shower lukewarm. Very hot water evaporates quickly and can dehydrate skin. Moisturize your skin within a few minutes of stepping out of the shower to lock in moisture.

When cleansing your face, use a gentle face wash, rather than soap, which can dry out your skin. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like aloe and glycerin, which can help replenish skin’s moisture.

You want to keep your skin protected from outside elements such as cold and wind, so cover up your face and body well, and use lip protection regularly to avoid chapping. Even though it’s cold, don’t forget to use sunscreen that is no less than SPF15. Most people are unaware of how much sun damage they can sustain during the winter. Ultraviolet rays are still strong during the winter, and glare from snow can cause skin damage. It is therefore just as vital to protect skin from the sun during the winter, as it is in the summer.

If you suffer from very dry feet (that can really cut a rug), before hitting the sack, try lubing them up with moisturizer, then throw on some light cotton socks. Instead of allowing the moisture to evaporate into the air, when covered, your skin’s pores will absorb the moisturizer better.

While it’s tempting to take extra precautions against the season’s colds and illnesses, reduce your use of antibacterial gels and wipes. They contain alcohol, which robs skin of moisture.

And lastly, if you’re fortunate during winter to either be on vacation from “THE MAN”, or on a permanent vacation, take advantage of the power of our Canadian dollar by heading south with the geese!

Stay warm and protected!