What You Should Know About Winter Skin Care

We rely on our skin to protect us from the elements because it is our largest organ. Our overall health and well-being depend on keeping our skin healthy.

In the winter, our skin can suffer. Dry, cracked skin can result from the weather and wind during the cold season. Inflammation and even infection can result from not taking care of our skin.

Skin Care Tips for Winter

Our skin needs extra care during winter. We can keep our skin healthy and happy during winter by following simple tips:

Cleanse your skin gently: When cleansing your skin, less is more. That’s because harsh cleansers can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin dry and irritated. Instead, opt for a gentle, non-drying cleanser that cleans your skin without stripping away its natural oils. You can use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, available over the counter.

Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliation is essential for keeping your skin healthy, but it’s crucial in the winter. That’s because exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells that can build up on the surface of your skin, leading to a dull, lifeless complexion. You should exercise a gentle exfoliating scrub or a sonic cleansing brush twice weekly.

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Moisturizing is key for keeping your skin healthy in the winter. That’s because the cold weather can cause your skin to dry out, making it more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. You can use a thick, oil-based moisturizer to help lock in moisture and protect your skin from the elements.

Use sunscreen: You might not think you need to use sunscreen in the winter, but the sun’s rays can still damage your skin, even when it’s cold outside. So, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily is essential, even in the winter.

Treat your cold sore: If you get a cold sore, don’t pick at it. This can lead to scarring. Use a topical cream or ointment, such as docosanol (abreva) or penciclovir (denavir).

For chapped lips: Apply a lip balm or cream that contains petroleum jelly or beeswax. Avoid lip balms that contain menthol, camphor, or flavors, as these can actually make your lips more chapped.

For a free consultation, please contact our office at 314-567-3567. We serve St. Louis and the surrounding areas.