GeneralTips To Switch Up Your Skincare Routine In the Winter

Does your skin feel dry and itchy during each winter season? If you’re still using the same lightweight skin products and routines from the summer, this is likely the culprit. We know the winter months can be harsh, but we often forget about the combined effects of indoor heating, in addition to the cold, frigid air outdoors. From itchy redness to dry flakiness to wrinkles and rough complexions – these are the most common signs that are telling you it’s time to switch up your skincare routine in the winter. Give your skin the best protection to keep it healthy, hydrated, and beautiful each season with these Hollywood skincare tips below.

Switch to an Oil or Cream Based Cleanser

Any good skincare routine starts with the right cleanser, based on your skin type and time of year. If you’ve been using a foamy cleanser, it won’t benefit your skin enough during the colder months. These often contain sulfates which are known to contribute to dry skin. Instead, choose a cleanser that is oil or cream-based. These will eliminate dirt and oil without stripping any of your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Exfoliate the Right Way

Exfoliating is an important part of maintaining beautiful skin because it removes that barrier of dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface and prevent products from being effective. But there is a right way and a wrong way to exfoliate. To exfoliate the right way and get your skin glowing, only do this at a maximum twice per week – and be gentle. Just like brushing your teeth, gentle circular motions are best.

Turn Down the Temperature in Your Shower

Sometimes, nothing feels better than a steamy hot shower in the winter. But try to avoid cranking up the heat too much. Showering or bathing regularly with hot water will also contribute to dehydration and irritation. If possible, shorten your showers and use warm water only. Once you’re done, apply a heavier moisturizer to your damp skin and use more than you typically would during the summer. Doing this after bathing is best for maximizing hydration.

Use Cream Instead of Lotion

By now, we know that a good skincare routine is all about proper hydration, and what works in summer won’t necessarily suffice for the winter. This, of course, includes your moisturizer. Use a heavier, non-comedogenic cream that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin and oil. Together, these will extract moisture from the air and into the skin. The oils will also retain that moisture so it can’t escape. By choosing a non-comedogenic cream, you shouldn’t have to worry about developing pimples either.

Layering Lightest to Heaviest

Just like bundling up for the winter, skincare should also follow a layering technique, starting from lighter to heavier. If you use a toner and serum, start with these and then finish with your moisturizer.

Protect from UV Damage

While the UV rays and sun damage are most common during the summer months, they’re still a relevant risk factor during winter. So keep your sunscreen handy and put some on whenever you’re heading out during the day.

Treat Your Skin to a Restorative Facial

If you’re looking for an excuse to enjoy a little pampering, getting a facial treatment is an excellent way to boost the health of your skin, especially during the winter. Treatments like Medical Grade Facials are specifically custom to your skin type and needs which will help improve and protect your skin during the winter seasons.

About The Author

Dr. Hetz is the Owner and Medical Director of Concept Medical. Dr. Hetz completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of Ottawa followed by a fellowship in primary care skin conditions and office-based surgical procedures. He currently holds an academic appointment with the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa and regularly teaches fellow physicians and residents at his office.

In 2021 and 2022 Concept Medical won the Consumer Choice Award in two separate categories. Most recently, Dr. Hetz was named one of the Forty Under 40 recipients for Ottawa by the Ottawa Business Journal and Ottawa Board of Trade.

This post has been sponsored by seoplus+