Between the chilly winds and the dry indoor air of winter, our skin often bears the brunt of the season. The drop in temperature can lead to issues such as dryness, flakiness, and an overall dull complexion. For this reason, we are going to take a closer look at some holistic nature based tips to help your skin thrive all winter long.
Hydration is Key
The foundation of an effective winter skincare routine lies in maintaining proper hydration. It's easy to forget to drink enough water when you aren't necessarily feeling the heat. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is recommended that women consume 2.7 liters per day, and men should aim for 3.7 liters daily. Drinking lots of herbal tea is our favorite way to stay hydrated during the winter.
While staying hydrated from the inside by drinking water is crucial, it's equally important to focus on topical hydration. Hydrosols are an ideal natural method to infuse additional hydration into the skin. These water-based solutions, laden with botanical goodness, provide a refreshing and hydrating boost. Keep one handy and saturate your skin through out the day. By combining internal and external hydration strategies, your winter skincare routine becomes a holistic and effective means to combat the season's challenges.
Nourish with Herbal Oils
Herbal oils infused with plants are indispensable allies in preserving the skin's well-being. Plant oils, such as jojoba, rose-hip, or apricot kernel, are enriched with antioxidants and essential fatty acids, delivering much needed nourishment to the skin. These timeless elixirs act as a shield against the harsh effects of winter, providing a moisture-locking barrier that prevents dehydration. Oils infused with herbs like calendula, yarrow, or marshmallow bring forth the therapeutic benefits of these botanicals, soothing irritated skin and brightening the overall complexion.
The optimal time to apply these oils is after cleansing when the skin is moist and the pores are open. Incorporating herbal-infused oils into your skincare routine during winter is akin to providing your skin with a comforting blanket, that protects it from the harsh elements of the world.
Gentle Cleansing Rituals
Winter demands a shift in your cleansing routine. Harsh cleansers can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin even drier. It's best to wash your skin quickly, gently, and completely. Opt for a mild, natural cleanser that effectively removes impurities without compromising your skin's natural barrier. Soap itself is alkaline, while skin is acidic, and leaving a lather upon the skin for more more than 30 seconds can make your skin red and angry. Excessively hot water can do the same. Look for cleansers enriched with real ingredients like coconut and olive oil, known for their soothing properties. Avoid detergent based cleansers which contain harsh ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
While the common advice is to cleanse your face twice a day, both in the morning and at night, it's important to note that certain skin types may perceive this routine as too frequent, leading to excessive dryness. In instances where this occurs, a gentle alternative is to use cool water only for a morning wash, reserving the use of a cleanser for the nightly routine. This modified approach is particularly suitable for individuals with exceptionally sensitive skin, ensuring effective cleansing without compromising the skin's delicate balance.
Exfoliate Wisely
Exfoliation is a key step in any skincare regimen, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. This not only improves skin texture but may also enhances the effectiveness of subsequent skincare products. For some folks the regular act of cleansing provides enough exfoliation. Mechanical exfoliants such as sugar and salt scrubs are fine for the feet and body but can be too abrasive for the face. Herbal facial masks are our go-to exfoliation year-round.
Herbal facial masks act as a concentrated treatment, delivering hydration and nourishment to the skin. In addition to combating dryness, facial masks contribute to skin rejuvenation. They promote blood circulation and provide a deep cleanse, helping to remove impurities and dead skin cells. Furthermore, masks can assist in balancing skin tone, reducing redness, and soothing irritated skin, offering relief from the impact of cold winds and central heating systems.
Stay Sun Protected
Did you know that the snow reflects 80% of the suns UV light? Even in winter, the sun's rays can be harsh. Choose a natural sunscreen with zinc oxide. These minerals provide effective sun protection without harmful chemicals. Applying sunscreen to exposed areas, especially during outdoor winter activities, ensures your skin stays shielded and healthy.
Prioritize Lip Care
Winter can be particularly harsh on delicate lip skin. Keep lips soft and supple with a natural lip butter. Regular application protects lips from chapping, ensuring a smooth, kissable pucker even in the coldest weather. Avoid Vasaline, chapstick, and other commercial balms which contain petroleum based ingredients such petrolatum.
Role of a Clean Diet
We are what we eat, and our skin reflects that. A diet rich in whole foods, vibrant fruits, vegetables, and quality proteins supports the body's natural detoxification processes, aiding in the elimination of toxins that can contribute to skin issues. Antioxidant-rich foods combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of premature aging and promoting a radiant complexion. By prioritizing organic grown, nutrient-dense, minimally processed foods, individuals not only nourish their bodies from within but also contribute to a clear, vibrant, and resilient skin, reflecting the interconnectedness of dietary choices and skin wellness.
Exercise & Skin Health
Regular exercise plays a crucial role in promoting overall skin health. The increased blood circulation generated by exercise ensures that skin cells receive ample oxygen and nutrients, contributing to a vibrant complexion. Movement has a direct benefit upon our mental health, uplifting mood, and may help manage skin conditions which are exacerbated by stress. Sweating during physical activity helps unclog pores and detoxify the skin, promoting a clearer and more radiant appearance. Furthermore, exercise stimulates collagen production, essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the signs of aging.
Importance of an Holistic Approach
As we navigate the winter months, it's essential to embrace a holistic approach to skincare. It's important to observe our skin's needs and adjust our routine accordingly. Incorporate nourishing foods into our diet, practice stress-reducing activities, and get adequate sleep. What is good for our overall well-being is typically good for our skin.
Also, when it comes to our personal self-care journey, It is important for us to meet ourselves where we are as individuals. If we are realizing that we have a long way to go, that's okay. What's important is to take it one step at a time. Taking on more than we can handle is simply unsustainable. Comparing ourself to others is not meeting ourselves where we are. What we are looking for is a self-care ritual that builds momentum, uplifts us, and is something we can maintain and stay conscious with regardless of the season.