by Sasha Reddy
This article has been reviewed and approved by Erica Brown, licensed massage therapist and licensed esthetician.
Stop reading for just a second. Put down the magazine and give your hands a quick once-over. Do they look dry and flakey? Do you feel any scratches or cracks in the skin when you clench your fists? Does your skin peak when pinched between your fingers?
During this time of year, you probably find yourself constantly reaching for a tube of Chapstick or a travel-size bottle of moisturizer. Though some people are more dehydration-prone than others, winter weather can be ruthless to everyone. Thankfully, these tried and true tricks can help you sail through the season with hydrated, healthy skin.
Beef Up Your Moisturizers
Between icy winds and the lack of moisture in the air, your skin barrier becomes particularly vulnerable in the winter. This results in TEWL – trans-epidural water loss. “That just means that your skin barrier isn’t intact and that water is being pulled out of your skin,” says Erica Brown, licensed esthetician, “so it’s going to be dry.”
An easy switch you can make to better brace your skin for winter weather is to use moisturizers that contain more oil. These oil-based products go beyond simply rehydrating your skin; they create a second layer that improves water retention so you are less likely to dry out in the first place.
But how do you know what products to look for? There are three basic categories of moisturizers: lotions, creams, and ointments. Lotions are typically formulated with more water and have a thinner consistency. On the other hand, ointments typically have a higher concentration of oil, and creams usually fall somewhere in the middle. If you normally use a lotion to moisturize, try switching to a cream in colder conditions.
If you’re acne-prone, don’t be afraid of thicker moisturizers, either. Many acne sufferers prefer lighter, more watery products because they contain less oil. But thicker creams and ointments don’t universally cause breakouts – it all depends on the ingredients and formulation. Erica recommends looking for moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, a superb water retention tool. “It holds ten times its weight [in water],” she says, “and it binds water to the skin.”
Whether you deal with dry skin chronically or you want to up the ante on your winter skincare routine, Erica has a few go-to products to share. “These moisturizers are going to be good for dry skin or dehydrated skin, but they have different finishes.”
1. Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Lactic Dewey Deep Cream.
As the name implies, this cream not only moisturizes but creates the look of glowing, hydrated skin.
2. Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream.
If you have a more oily complexion and want something hydrating without the sheen, this cream is the way to go. Erica describes it as silky and a bit more mattifying.
3. Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Oil-Free Moisture Cushion.
Specially formulated to improve skin hydration without weighing you down, this lightweight cream contains hyaluronic acid, which Erica notes is excellent for preventing TEWL. The oil-free formula is great even for acne-prone wearers.
Cover Up
Of course, even the best skincare routine may not spare your skin from harsh winter conditions. Say you’ve got an upcoming ski trip and want to prevent wind burn on the slopes. In this case, adequate coverage is the best way to prevent TEWL. Erica recommends using an occlusive product, like Vaseline, to reinforce your skin barrier and prevent water loss. “It’s thick, so it’s going to seal and keep everything in.” Really, any petrolatum-based skincare product will work well for this. Wearing extra layers, wind-proof gloves, and a ski mask will also help lock water into the skin while keeping you warm.
Stay Away from Direct Heat
We know what you’re thinking: “It’s cold outside. I have to warm up somehow!” We get it – this time of year, there’s nothing quite like lounging in a steamy bath or snuggling up by a space heater on full blast. While these things feel great, they dehydrate the skin, leaving you warm, yes, but uncomfortably dry and flakey, too. Try turning the temperature down when you shower and wash your hands and face – it doesn’t have to be cold, just don’t make it hot. Running a humidifier alongside your heater can also do wonders for dry skin.
Be Mindful of the Sun
Finally, Erica wants to reinforce the importance of UV protection year-round. “Just because the days are shorter or you’re not outside as much, still wear sunscreen,” she pleads. “People forget that in the wintertime.” Even on a cloudy day, you can still get tons of UV exposure from the sun, and snow reflects those harmful rays. While a coat and pants can shield most of your body, wearing sunscreen on your face and any other exposed skin will protect you fully.
To keep your skin healthy and hydrated throughout the winter, it’s essential to adapt. Our skin is our first line of defense against many germs, so maintaining it more carefully may even help prevent infection when cold and flu season is at its peak. By choosing the right moisturizers, protecting your skin with physical barriers, and steering clear of direct heat, anyone can maintain a strong and nourished skin barrier.
Can I get a facial to protect my skin before hitting the slopes?
Erica does not recommend this. Many facials use chemicals that eat away at the superficial layers of the skin. Though the Dr. Dennis Gross line used in all HAC facial services is naturally gentler, the products can leave your skin vulnerable. Following up a chemical peel with significant cold or wind exposure may do more harm than good. On the other hand, getting a facial after your next ski trip can help your skin better recoup from wind burn and water loss.
