Winter Woes

Photo by Felix Lammers

The skin is the largest organ of the body and is susceptible to many environmental factors, including weather changes. During the winter season, skin naturally loses 25% more moisture than in the summer. To survive these cold winter months, we often turn up the heat in the home and car, use electric blankets and space heaters, take long, scolding hot showers, and pile on additional layers of clothing. Unfortunately, these habits tend to exacerbate dry skin conditions.

Here's the good news: skin has the amazing ability to regenerate itself! It sheds the dead, dehydrated cells that lie on its surface to make room for new, living, cells to rise. If the dead skin cells are not shedding efficiently however, the cell turnover slows, which further impairs the skin’s natural protective ability. This allows for environmental irritants like bacteria and pollution to sneak in, causing inflammation and blemishes.

Well-moisturized skin provides a protective barrier that is more resistant to irritation, infection, heat and cold. Choosing a moisturizer or serum containing hyaluronic acid, which holds up to 1000 times its own weight in water, allows replenishing of the skin’s own natural hydration levels.

Another essential ingredient to incorporate into your skin care regimen is an alpha hydroxy acid. Look for glycolic or lactic acid listed as one of the first few ingredients. AHAs promote natural exfoliation of the dead and dying cells of the outermost layer of the skin by dissolving the intercellular “glue” between these cells. The cells beneath are newer, fresher and well hydrated.

A few last tips: avoid over-drying skin care products that list alcohol as one of the first two ingredients; use a humidifier at your desk or near your bed at night; keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and always lather up with a broad spectrum sunscreen!

xo, Brittany