How to Transition to a Winter Skin Regimen

It’s that time of the year: the wind has picked up and the air is getting brisk. The California tank top weather is no longer upon us, so it’s time to bundle up. While it’s obvious our clothing choices need to change with the weather, many don’t realize that it’s just as important to change up skin care routines. The winter weather can do some serious damage to your skin if you aren’t taking the necessary steps to protect it. Here are a few pointers on how you can make a smooth transition into an effective winter skin regimen.

Add Moisture

The cold weather brings dry air with it, decreasing your body’s amount of moisture. Before you reach for the Vaseline (remember it contains the harmful carcinogen, benzene), opt for a safe, all natural option like Lydia Dainow’s hydrating moisturizer. Another easy way to keep your body and skin hydrated is to up your water intake each day. Bring a water bottle with you everywhere you go.

Reduce Your Bath Time

A hot bath may sound like a good idea during the colder months, but it may not be the best thing for your skin. The more time you spend in the bath, the more of your body’s natural oils wash off. Protective oils help lock in moisture. Keep your showers to 10 to 15 minutes and limit your use of hot water.

Swap Out Your Makeup

If your complexion is especially red in the colder months, swap out powder foundations and blushes for liquid or cream versions (try Advanced Minerals Liquid Foundation) and keep a highlighter on hand to fake glowing skin.

Double Check the Ingredient List

Ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, are hero molecules when it comes to trapping water below the skin’s surface and plumping the lines and wrinkles that become more noticeable when skin is dry and dehydrated. If you’re sensitive or acne-prone, look for products that contain grape seed oil or extract—it has anit-inflammatory, moisturizing and firming properties.

Opt for a Lightweight SPF

Just because the sun isn’t shining does not mean it can’t reach you. Sunlight peaks through the clouds (a lot more than you think), and can burn your skin if you’re not careful. Even if your skin doesn’t get burned, the exposure is harming your skin and contributing to sun damage (and early signs of aging). Try a lightweight SPF protector like Eminence’s Tropical Vanilla Sun Cream with SPF 32. This all natural, organic sun screen protects your skin from harmful rays while providing your skin with much needed hydration.