Winter in the Mid-Atlantic can be hit or miss, but dry skin is almost inevitable. Indoor heating, wind and cold and a lack of much needed humidity can make all of us suffer from dry, flaky skin. Luckily, help is available.
With just a few changes to your winter skin routine, you can keep your skin soft and smooth.
Switch Your Cleanser
While gel and water based cleansers are a must to prevent summer breakouts, winter skin craves a more gentle solution. Switch your cleanser to a cream base solution, which doesn't compete with your skins natural oil, to keep your skin soft and flake free. THE pearl suggests ZO Offects Hydrating Cleanser which hydrates and rejuvenates without disrupting the moisture barrier.
Exfoliate
Because colder temperatures lead to a bigger build-up of dry skin, exfoliation is essential. Regular exfoliation of old, flaky skin allows your moisturizer and serums to penetrate better and helps your make up look more even and natural. Don't forget about the rest of your body too! The upper back, arms and legs get especially dry this time of year. Exfoliating weekly will keep you smooth and soft from head to toe! THE pearl suggests Lifeline Dual Action Exfoliator for the face and Kerstin Florian Correcting Body Peel Pads for the body.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
To combat the effects of drying indoor heat and irritating outdoor elements, moisturizing is key. Hold off on the lighter moisturizers that you use in the spring and summer months and switch to something thicker and creamier that will protect your skin from its environment. For an added boost, add a serum to your daily regimen, which will assist in correcting more specific skincare concerns. THE pearl suggests Kerstin Florian Rescue Cream to rescue your skin from environmental stress, harsh elements and dry conditions. For a head to toe moisturizing option, try Red Flower's Artic Berry Cloud Cream. This cream seals in moisture while soothing dry, irritated skin. Great for anyone suffering from rosacea, eczema or other skin ailments.
Learn more about treating your skin during the winter at our Best Face Forward Workshop.