The winter season brings so many wonderful things, but it can also wreak havoc on our skin. Cold weather can cause our complexions to be dry, flaky, and inflamed without proper care. But it is possible to keep your skin looking radiant throughout the winter months, you just need some helpful advice. Keep scrolling for the 5 essential winter skin tips you need to know.

TIP #1: LIMIT SHOWER TIME AND TEMPERATURE

Taking a long hot shower or bath might seem like it’s exactly what your skin needs after a cold winter day, but it’s a recipe for dry and itchy skin. You should avoid using excessively hot water and opt for a 5-10 minute lukewarm shower or bath to help keep your skin from getting irritated and stripping it of its moisture.

TIP #2: HYDRATE YOUR BODY

Water is one of the most important molecules our bodies need to function and that’s especially true during the winter months when we forget to hydrate ourselves properly. Hydrating your body during winter can help keep your skin in order all season long. 

TIP #3: MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN

During the winter months, our skin can become more dry and flaky so we need to adjust our skincare regime to help keep our skin moisturized and protected against the winter elements. Upgrading to a thicker moisturizer can help nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin from harsh winter conditions.

TIP #4: USE SUNSCREEN – EVEN ON GLOOMY WINTER DAYS

Whether you’re hitting the slopes, playing in the snow, or just out and about, sun reflections from the snow can increase your risk of sun exposure and ultimately damage your skin. Even dark and gloomy days put you at risk for sun exposure as the sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage. Before you leave the house, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of the body to protect your skin from the sun, and reapply every two hours.

TIP #5: USE GENTLE PRODUCTS

Your skin can be more delicate and sensitive during the winter months so it’s important to replace your harsh scrubs and exfoliants with more gentle products that help promote cell turnover.