In a recent poll, only 10% of Americans chose winter as their favorite season.
That figure is probably slightly different here in Vail, Colorado, where we count down the days to the start of every ski season. No matter how you feel about cooler weather, though, one thing is for certain — it can be brutal on your skin.
What can you do to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant all winter long? Keep reading for five winter skin care tips that will help you achieve your goal.
1. Layer Your Skin Care Products
Think about all the layers you put on before you head outside on a cold winter day. You put a vest over your shirt, then a sweater, then a scarf, then a coat.
Give your skin the same consideration during the colder months by “layering up” your skin care routine. After cleansing your skin, apply a moisture-rich serum as a base latyer. Then smooth a few drops of facial oil across your face and neck. Finally, seal in all the moisture with a nourishing day cream.
Pro tip: Do exactly the same thing before bedtime with your nighttime skin care products!
2. Boost Your Intake of Vitamin D
You likely know that Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, but did you know that it’s also crucial for healthy skin?
Healthy levels of Vitamin D help to prevent the skin aging process. The active form of Vitamin D, calcitriol, is fundamental for skin cell metabolism, growth, and repair. Sadly, though, 77% of Americans are deficient in this important vitamin.
Give your skin what it’s craving by spending adequate time outdoors (but don’t forget sunscreen). You might also consider taking a Vitamin D supplement during the wintertime and adding some Vitamin D-rich foods to your daily diet.
3. Use Cleansing Oil Before Bathing
Take your self-care routine to the next level by adding cleansing oil to your daily bath or shower ritual.
It seems counter-intuitive to slather your skin with oil before taking a shower, but it helps to seal in your skin’s natural moisture (rather than stripping it away). These products aren’t greasy or heavy, and they won’t clog your pores — they’re actually ideal for every skin type!
Apply a thin layer of cleansing oil to your face and neck before you enter your shower or bath. Wait until the very end to remove it, then apply moisturizer as soon as you step out.
4. DIY Lymphatic Facial Massage
Age and inactivity both slow our body’s lymphatic system, which can leave our skin looking dull, puffy, and unhealthy. Grab your morning moisturizers and give your skin a jump-start with this easy DIY facial massage treatment:
- Smooth your fingers from the middle of your forehead to your temples, jaw, and throat
- Run your fingers above your eyes to your temples and jaw, then repeat under your eyes
- Smooth your fingers from behind your ears down your jawline, neck, and throat
Repeat each movement three times to push all that built up waste out of your skin cells and reveal a healthier complexion.
5. Get a Moisturizing Facial Treatment
A good winter skin care routine is vital, but it’s not always enough to combat the harsh conditions outside.
If you’re still struggling with dry, dull skin, sign up for a professional facial treatment at your local day spa. Your esthetician will evaluate your skin and choose the perfect products to cleanse, balance, and rejuvenate your skin.
Not familiar with the many benefits of facials? It’s time to get acquainted!
Revamp Your Winter Skin Care Routine Today
Don’t let the winter chill rob your skin of its natural moisture and glow. With a few changes to your winter skin care routine, you can enjoy soft, healthy skin all year long!
Try some of the tips outlined above and get ready to enjoy a noticeable difference in your skin condition. And when you’re ready for your next facial, you don’t have to go any farther than the Highline Doubletree in West Vail.
Apres Massage now proudly offers customized facial treatments to brighten, tighten, and moisturize your skin. Check out our new facial menu or give us a call at 970-445-2114 to learn more!