Winter can be tough on your skin, especially with the drop in temperatures and the use of indoor heating. Dermatologists, with their specialized skills, are the go-to experts for navigating these seasonal challenges. They not only treat various skin concerns daily but also have personal routines to tackle dryness, flakiness, and irritation. We've enlisted the expertise of a skin dermatologist in this blog to bring you seven skincare tips for glowing skin in winter.
Common Winter Skin Issues
Before discussing skin care tips for women, let's understand the common winter skin issues every Canadian faces. Ensuring skin moisturization is crucial for maintaining its health in the winter. The combination of cold air, harsh winds, and indoor dry heat makes it susceptible to various conditions. Here are prevalent winter skin issues that can happen, or become worsened, during this season:
Eczema
Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a skin condition characterized by itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. While it is very common in young children, it can manifest at any age. A combination of skin inflammation, genetics, environmental factors, and stress triggers the condition. The cold and dry winter weather, in particular, can make eczema symptoms worse.
Psoriasis
This is a chronic condition causing red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin, often flaring up before subsiding. Psoriasis occurs in areas such as the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. While there's no cure, dermatologists can create a treatment plan. Winter's cold and reduced sunlight can worsen psoriasis.
Rosacea
Cold dry weather frequently triggers episodes of rosacea, a skin condition characterized by redness and visible blood vessels. Rosacea leads to facial dryness, blushing or flushing, with flare-ups lasting weeks or months. It can also cause acne like bumps to the face. If left untreated, it can lead to lasting damage to the skin and eyes.
Keratosis Pilaris (‘Chicken Skin’)
Known as "Chicken Skin," keratosis pilaris is a harmless genetic inherited condition causing dry, rough patches and tiny bumps, often more noticeable on arms, legs, buttocks and sometimes the face. These symptoms worsen during dry winter weather.
Raynaud’s Disease
Affecting approximately 12000 Canadians every year, Raynaud’s disease involves blood vessel spasms in fingers and toes due to cold, stress, or emotional triggers. This results in decreased blood flow and turning fingers or toes cold, white, and numb—an issue exacerbated during winter.
Understanding Skincare Tips for Healthier Skin in Winter
Maintaining healthier skin in winter can be challenging due to the cold, dry air that strips the skin of its natural moisture. Here are some skincare tips to help you achieve and maintain radiant, glowing skin during the winter months:
Gentle Cleansing
Using harsh cleansers can remove the natural oils from your skin, making dryness worse in winter. Choose a mild, hydrating cleanser that effectively cleans without harming your skin's natural barrier. According to the top dermatologists in Canada, it's advisable to cleanse no more than twice a day to prevent excessive dryness.
Exfoliate Wisely
While exfoliation is crucial for removing dead skin cells, too much can be detrimental in the winter. Dermatologists advise using a mild exfoliator once or twice weekly to slough off dry, flaky skin. Look for products with gentle exfoliating agents like lactic acid or glycolic acid for a radiant complexion without irritation. Dermatologists also recommend moisturizing after exfoliation in the Winter to maintain a good skin barrier.
Hydration is Key
One of the most, if not THE most, crucial aspects of winter skincare is maintaining hydration. According to physicians, cold air dries the skin, leading to moisture loss. Combat this by using a rich, hydrating moisturizer that contains ingredients like ceramides, glycerin & hyaluronic acid. Apply it liberally once to twice a day to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against the elements. After taking a shower or bathing, Dermatologists suggest applying a moisturizer within 3 minutes of toweling your skin to lock in that moisture.
Sunscreen Is Not Just for Summer
Many people associate sunscreen with summertime, but UV rays are present year-round. Yes, year round. Snow can reflect sunlight, intensifying its effects. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 at least daily, even on cloudy days. This will protect you from sun damage and premature aging.
Use Vitamin C Products
Vitamin C plays a significant role in reducing environmental free radicals from affecting your skin, including the harsh winter months. Vitamin C topically is a powerful antioxidant. Through its ability to hinder the production of melanin, the natural pigment that determines skin color, vitamin C aids in the fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Additionally, it enhances the overall brightness and radiance of your skin.
Lip Care Matters
Don't forget about your lips! The thin skin on the lips is prone to drying and cracking in winter. Keep them soft and supple by regularly applying a nourishing lip balm. When picking a lip balm, avoid fragranced products. Skin-focused dermatologists also recommend gently exfoliating your lips with a scrub to remove dead skin.
Best Time to Use Retinol
Gradually incorporating retinol into your skincare routine can minimize the risk of sensitive skin reactions. Despite potential mild reactions, introducing a retinoid during winter is optimal. This season offers less sunlight exposure as retinoids and retinols can make your skin sun-sensitive, especially when you first introduce it into your skin regimen. Talk to your skin care specialist to discuss the right retinoid for you.
Why Choosing Professional Skin Treatments in Winter?
Consider professional skin treatments by dermatologists in a skin care clinic to ensure it stays radiant throughout the season. Laser treatments can be particularly effective, as they help to rejuvenate your skin by removing unwanted pigmentation, redness, and dead cells
Moreover, microneedling is another excellent option, as it stimulates collagen & elastin production, leaving your skin smoother and firmer. Dermatologists and skin-focused physicians have the expertise and advanced technology to customize these treatments to your specific skin needs, ensuring you achieve that coveted winter glow. Don't let the cold weather of Canada (Generally between mid-December and mid-March) dull your complexion; invest in professional skin treatments to maintain healthy and radiant skin all winter long.
Conclusion
Achieving radiant and healthy skin during the winter months is not only possible but also essential for maintaining skin health. The seven tips for glowing skin in winter by dermatologists serve as a comprehensive guide to combat the challenges posed by colder temperatures and harsh weather conditions.
By following the advice of our skin experts at Embrace Skin Clinic, individuals can get a winter skincare regimen that enhances their skin, ensuring a vibrant and glowing complexion year-round. You can trust the expertise of our skin-focused physicians to unlock the secrets to winter skincare and let your skin radiate with health and luminosity. Contact Us Today!
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