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Does your skin tend to dry out in the harsh winter air? You are not alone! One of the worst parts of winter is the flaky, red skin we get at the beginning of December. The “chapped” look (you know: chapped lips, chapped cheeks, chapped ears) is not really the look we want in all of our Christmas pictures, right? Fortunately, there are ways to keep your skin soft and smooth during the winter. Everyone’s skin is different, so you may have to tweak certain things to fit your needs, but these six tips are a good starting point for reviving your skin and maintaining it all winter long!
Cut Down the Water Temp!
Hot water is not good for your skin, especially your face. The hot water removes much-needed oils that keep the skin soft and supple. Instead, use lukewarm water to wash your face in the morning and evening and keep hot showers limited.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
We can’t say it enough! Moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower (or when you wash your face) so you can seal in the moisture from the water. The type of moisturizer you use is just as important as when you use it. Over-the-counter products often do not have the right ingredients to battle the winter cold and you will greatly benefit from using a moisturizer that is professional quality. It may cost more but the results are worth it!
Protect Your Skin!
This goes for both indoors and outside. If the air in your home is dry, you are just complicating things further. Installing a humidifier in your bedroom has many health benefits, including keeping your skin moist. You should also be using sunscreen every day when going outside. The sun may not seem as dangerous as it is in the summer, but the UV rays are just as harmful in the winter. Use a foundation or moisturizer that has at least an SPF 30 on your face and reapply if you are out for a long period of time.
The Type of Cleanser You Use Matters!
Skin treatments can cause excessive drying. If you are using a glycolic or salicylic acid cleanser or a topical cream to combat acne, you could already be setting yourself up for major drying. We know you need to take care of your acne, but try to rotate your cleansers by using a hydrating cleanser every other day and making sure that you moisturize immediately after cleansing.
Hydrate Your Body!
How do you keep all parts of your body hydrated, including your skin? Making sure that you consume the recommended (or more) ounces of water per day will definitely do the trick! It is recommended that you drink at least 64 ounces of water a day. Some doctors claim you should drink even more than that! Either way, drinking plenty of water and eating foods that have a high-water content (like watermelon) will ensure that you stay hydrated from the inside out.
Exfoliate!
When you exfoliate, you remove dead skin cells from your face. It is important to remove these dead cells so that your moisturizer can effectively reach your healthy cells. Too many dead cells create a barrier and your efforts are not going to get the results you desire. You can use an over-the-counter exfoliant once a week but for maximum impact, you should get a professional treatment, like our HydraFacial, that will exfoliate the skin while cleansing and adding much-needed hydration to the skin.
APS Medical Spa
Our spa offers several professional-grade options for moisturizers and other skin care treatments. Our physicians have created a unique and exclusive skin care line that is clinically proven to improve and promote healthy skin.  We can customize a treatment that is specific to your needs. Our signature line can address many issues including dryness, fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and signs of aging. Our esthetician will work with you to find the perfect combination of moisturizers, cleansers, makeup, and skin treatments to make sure your skin remains healthy, not only during the winter season but all year long!
If you would like to schedule an appointment with our Medical Spa, please contact us today! We will work extensively with you to create a skin care plan that is right for you. You do not have to spend this winter with red, dry skin! We are here to help you regain glowing, soft, and hydrated skin that will last you throughout 2018!