Winter can be harsh. The weather gets colder, time spent outside starts to disappear, and
staying healthy begins to feel much more difficult. Some even experience seasonal depression.

If you feel like winter gets you down, your skin probably feels the same.

The colder, drier months can leave skin flaky, dry, and calling out for care. Just as you can
brave the winter easier by following to take care of your body and mind, you
can also seek tips to help keep your skin healthy all winter long.

Here are five skincare tips to practice as the winter months approach that should allow you to
nourish your skin with the right care, just as you care for your body and mind when you practice
yoga.

1. Hydrate!

Since weather is much drier in the winter, for the most part, your skin needs extra hydration
during the winter months. You might find that you need to switch to a cream cleanser, as
opposed to a gel cleanser.

Also, as always, drink plenty of water. This will, in turn, help to keep your skin hydrated.
Nourish your body with healthy foods, paying perhaps even more attention to nutrition than you
do all year. It’s common to drink more alcohol and eat less healthy foods during the winter
holidays. However, keeping your skin in mind, try your best to make healthy choices as often as
you can.

You can also seek specialized treatments to help with skin hydration, especially if you have
notoriously dry skin. For instance, you can get a winter facial with serums that your aesthetician
will add to hydrate your skin. You can even get a , which is a specialized facial
using an instrument designed for the purpose of skin hydration.

2. Don’t over-exfoliate.

Exfoliating your skin is usually an important part of any skincare routine. However, in winter,
your skin might be prone to more irritation and sensitivity.
If you normally exfoliate three times a week, maybe reduce the frequency to once a week. This
will ensure that you do keep dead skin cells at bay but do not strip your skin of the oil it needs to
stay hydrated throughout the winter.

3. Use gentle, calming skin products.

Though using products without harsh or skin-stripping chemicals is always crucial, it is
especially important when the weather gets colder and drier.

Pay attention to for all skin types, as products might be better for some skin
types but not right for others. For example, if you have issues with oily skin or have sensitive
skin, you’ll want to steer clear of heavy moisturizing products; while those with dry skin will need
to be extra cautious about using products that hydrate.

4. Don’t wash your face in hot water.

Of course, hot water feels so good when it’s cold outside, but do your best to avoid washing
your face in hot water.

The hot water might feel nourishing in the moment, but it will strip your skin and leave it dry and
more prone to irritation and breakouts.

5. Wear sunscreen.

Many people put their sunscreen away during the winter months, since colder weather usually
means less time in direct sunlight. However, the sun can damage your skin any time of year,
especially if you have a fairer complexion.

You might not realize that the sun is affecting you, but it’s so important to wear sunscreen every
day, especially on your face.

Find a moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or above, if possible, and wear it daily. Over time, too
much sun exposure without protection will increase signs of aging and the risk of skin cancer.

Hopefully, these tips will help you keep your skin healthy all winter, so you can enjoy cozy time
indoors, the cooler weather, and the holidays without breakouts or skin irritation.

Happy winter all!