Weatherproof Your Skin with a Winterized Routine
Seasons greetings! It's that time of year again: cozy knits, hot cocoa by the fire...dry, chapped hands.
Winter can do a number on your largest organ, causing dry, tight skin as well as flareups of inflammatory conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.
While seasonal changes don’t mean you need a complete overhaul of your routine, there are a few simple strategies to make sure you stay glowing all season long.
Moisture, moisture, moisture!
Drinking an adequate amount of water is a simple but often overlooked element of healthy skin. It’s easy to forget when we don’t feel as thirsty as we might in the heat, but our need for H2O doesn’t lessen in the cold! Keep up with clear fluids and make a hot cuppa part of your winter skincare routine.
A long, steamy shower sounds cozy on a cold day, but scorching baths with oil-stripping soaps are sure to leave you high and dry. Remember, squeaky clean = stripped skin! Turn down the temperature for a quick rinse and switch out the suds for a gentle, soap-free cleanser like CRUDE’s Wash for the body or Cleanse for the face - both of which double as moisturizers.
Speaking of soap, frequent hand washing - while vital in stopping the spread of Covid-19 and other viruses - can leave your hands feeling tight and chapped. Follow up with our moisturizing Wash after cleansing your hands to avoid cracked, flaky skin.
A little nighttime dew goes a long way, too. Incorporate a hydrating serum to your bedtime routine and pair with a humidifier to combat the dry heat inside and lock in moisture.
Exfoliate wisely.
Harsh peels and exfoliants can compromise the skin’s barrier, leaving it vulnerable to winter’s dry, frigid air. While they might seem like a solid quick fix, intentionally stripping the skin of its top layer can cause and worsen redness, inflammation, and sensitivity.
Use sparingly or switch tactics with a non-abrasive product like our purifying matcha mask, Detox. Try it once or twice a week to clear congested pores and brighten dull skin without irritation.
Don’t underestimate overcast skies.
The sun’s rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off snow, causing damage to the skin during any season. So, it’s just as important now as in the summer to protect your skin from potentially harmful UVB rays - especially at high altitudes.
Try to limit direct exposure to the midday sun and remember to wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and lip balm if you plan on a day on the slopes.
As always, we believe the best way to support your skin is to let it be! The key to staying moisturized during winter is to stop stripping its oil with sudsing soaps and detergents. Your skin is smart and the best way to help it is to support its natural processes, instead of trying to outsmart them.
Let your nature thrive and your skin will follow.
