Managing Your Skin in the Wintertime by Jennifer Etienne

As if my skin isn’t dry enough, here comes winter weather making it worse! That cold prickly wind always leaves a harsh frostbite. And every skin type feels it. 

The change in weather affects our moods, habits and our skin. It is best to make note of how your skin gets during these months, so that you're prepared when the winter season comes. 

In order to learn how to manage your skin in the winter, it’s important to understand exactly what the cold weather does to us and our skin. 

No matter if your skin is normal, dry, oily, sensitive, or sporting a skin condition - like eczema, the cold weather comes for your skin, literally. The cold temperatures and low humidity draw moisture away from the skin. This causes a compromise to the health of the skin no matter the skin type. Occasionally, some may need a completely different skin routine for the winter. This is the time when moisturizers should be heavier. 

Emollients such as ointments, creams, body butters are what our skin will appreciate in the long run. Now I have eczema and you already know it’s extremely hard finding a good moisturizer to use daily(sigh), so during the winter you can only imagine the pain my skin goes through. I’ve just been using good ole-vaseline these days. It’s rich, thick and gets the job done for me. I would suggest anyone tired of buying commercial products that don’t work, to make vaseline a staple product in your routine. 

Although the cold weather makes it harder to manage your skin, it doesn't have to be. 

Here are a few tips for managing your skin during the winter:

- Find a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip your skin (Hint: Gently Soap) 

- Moisturize within the first three minutes after your shower 

Thanks to good ole TikTok, I found that the best time to properly moisturize your skin with emollients is before and after your shower. This allows the product to be absorbed by the skin since it's binded by the water then hydrating it. For me I literally slather that petroleum jelly on in the shower. (Just be careful not to slip lol as it is a greasy product.) 

- Avoid hot long baths (We know it’s tempting)

- Keep your moisturizer handy in case you need to rejuvenate on the go

Winter months are harsh to us but your skin can still be healthy even in the cold. So find a winter skin routine that works for you! 

What are some of your favorite winter skincare tips? Share them below!