Winter Skincare

The wonders of winter are many, like the long cold nights snuggled up under your blankets, the unassuming sunbeams that warm up the room, that hot cuppa you sip on while you watch the snow falling outside, the list is long and unending. And though every season has its perks and downfalls, the winter woes are probably most evident on our skin (like dry flaky skin, chapped lips to name a few). The drop in humidity levels, the dry air with frigid winds and the constant exposure to indoor heaters often leaves our skin dehydrated and sensitive to the slightest stimuli around. Bottom line: a regimen shakeup is due.

This time of the year requires for a slight shift in your normal skin care routine and today we will be sharing a few simple ways to show some winter love to your body.

1. Use gentle cleansers: More often than not our skin feels tight after a wash, this means that the cleanser we are using has disrupted our skin barrier. This is a good time to invest in a gentle cleansing milk or mild foam cleanser so that you can maintain your natural moisture within the skin. Glycerin based face wash and body washes are most ideal during this time as it keeps the skin calm and hydrated.

2. Moisturize: Continue your moisturizing game but replace lotions with thicker emollient creams and salves. Creams rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid are the perfect choice as they fill space between the skin cells to make the barrier stronger. If you are moisturizing twice a day, amping it up it to thrice will help in keeping the skin supple. As your skin is prone to more irritation in this season, it is best to keep a simple routine.

3. Short lukewarm showers: Don’t we all like our long hot indulgent showers, especially around this time of the year? But unfortunately the heat tends to strip the skin of its moisture and makes it even more dry and hence it is better to take short, lukewarm showers during this time. Those of you who use water from the bucket can also add some essential oils or even a tablespoon of coconut oil to it.

4. SPF: Though the level of UVB decreases during winter, the levels of UVA remain the same and the skin needs to be protected, so it is vital that we continue wearing sunscreen during the day in winters irrespective of whether we are at home or if we step out.

5. Layer your skin care products: Always start with lighter products and then work upward. Avoid excessive and harsh exfoliation and retinols as they tend to dry the skin further. Use all products moderately.

6. Hydrate: It is a natural tendency to have very little water during the cooler seasons as we feel less hot and are sweating less. But that doesn’t mean that we are less prone to dehydration. Keep your water goals set and realistic, have hot/warm beverages whenever possible. Reduce your intake of caffeinated drinks.

7. Supplement with omega 3: Omega-3 fats are essential fats that we must get from our diet. They have important benefits for our heart, brain and metabolism. According to the Food and Nutrition Board we must have an adequate intake of 1.6 gms for adult males and 1.1 gms of adult females on a daily basis. Oily fish, nuts and seeds are good dietary sources for Omega 3 and essential supplements can be taken. Choose a supplement that is cold pressed.

8. Humidifier: Whatever the season, air humidifiers are a good way to deal with dry air. As 50-60% of the human body is made up of water, dry conditions often pull out the moisture leaving it dry and flaky. Running a humidifier will help prevent the skin from drying out and will also help restore moisture levels within the home which can be beneficial on many levels.

9. Dress mindfully: Protect your hair, neck and hands with hats, scarves and gloves if you are staying in areas with a really cool climate and snowfall. Always wear cotton inners and if woolen sweaters make you feel itchy opt for fleece or cashmere clothing. Several thin layers of cotton clothing is a better option as it easier on the skin.

10. Exercise: Staying active in the winters is just as essential as it is through the year. Carry on the disciplined workout regime that you have built over time. Just 15-30 minutes of simple indoor exercises will keep the good hormones up and about.

11. Balanced Diet: We crave rich foods during this time of the year, but as we know too much of a good thing can show up as clogged pores and breakouts. On the flip side too few calories can leave you looking sallow. Choose a well-balanced diet that is both nutritious and keeps you active through the day. Eating small meals every 4 -5 hours will help avoid the winter craving that hit hard and heavy on most of us.

12. Protect the Lips: The one thing you need to be most cautious about during this time is the urge to keep licking your lips when chapped. Though this seems like the easiest way to keep them moist, it often leads to more drying and eczema. Keep a moisturizing lip balm with you and keep applying it through the day to keep your lips free from getting chapped and dry. My favorite moisturizer is a dab of extra virgin coconut oil, it keeps the lips pink, supple and plump through the day.

13. Care for hands, feet, elbows and knees: Follow the moisturize immediately after shower ritual during winters as well and lather extra lotion around the hands, feet, elbow and knees, on the really dry days I use thick salves, balms and Vaseline to take extra care of the skin in these areas.

14. Haircare: This season often comes with the struggle of dry, frizzy and static filled hair. Minimize the number of hair washes per week to twice if possible. I would also advice oiling or using a store bought/homemade hairmask before washes to prevent stripping the hair of its natural moisture. Oils like coconut, olive, almond and argan oil are the best when warmed slightly and applied mainly on the scalp. Always use a diluted shampoo and remember to condition after. I specially recommend using a hair serum or stay in conditioner after wash to keep those manes manageable. Cover them with a scarf or hat when you step out if you plan on staying outdoor for long.

15. Winter face packs: A quick face pack is something I opt for every time I feel a need to instantly brighten the skin and these are some of the simplest ingredients that you can use from the pantry to do exactly that.

Yogurt face pack: 1 tbsp. yogurt + 1 tbsp. honey and a pinch of turmeric

Mix all the ingredients and apply them on to your face and neck. Rinse it off after 20 minutes.

Avocado face pack: 2 tsp avocado+ 1 tsp honey+ 1 tsp rosewater

Mix the ingredients and apply it to your face and neck. Leave it on to dry for 10 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water.

And in case you are at your lazy best like most of us, then go easy and apply a layer of honey all over the skin 2-3 times a week in the evenings. It is natural humectant which seals in the natural moisture and will instantly give your skin a lovely glow, too. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and wash with lukewarm or cold water.

And there you go. A few simple changes to help you keep intact that glow as you tide over the snow. If you have still not figured a way to take time out to care for your skin, let the end of this year and the beginning of a new one pave the path to a fresh start. Prioritize yourself in an unselfish way and have a blast while at it.

"Love your neighbor as YOURSELF"- Mark 12:31

Revive...Renew...Restore...