Winter brings cold temperatures and dry conditions that deplete the skin’s natural oils. Additionally, winter weather sometimes leads to windburn, a condition that causes skin dryness, redness and irritation.
For those who are worried about winter weather and its effects on the skin, there is no need to stress. In fact, there are many ways to prepare the skin for winter weather, such as:
Clean the Skin with Lukewarm Water
A hot bath or shower may feel good in wintertime, but it removes essential oils from the skin. Thus, whenever possible, choose lukewarm water over hot water to clean the skin.
Moisturize After a Bath or Shower
This winter, keep a bottle of moisturizer near a bathtub, shower or bathroom sink and apply moisturizer immediately following a bath or shower. This helps seal dampness to the skin. Also, ZO Skin Health Renewal Crème can be used to enhance skin moisture and promote healthy skin repair.
Gear Up for the Winter Weather
Wear gloves and a scarf to safeguard the face against wind, snow and other inclement weather. And remember, excess exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin, even in winter. Therefore, pick up sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and apply it to exposed skin before sledding, skiing or other outdoor winter activities.
Adjust the Thermostat
Let’s face it – the temptation to crank the thermostat as high is possible may be overwhelming in winter. Yet setting the thermostat to a high temperature increases air dryness, and as a result, may lead to skin damage. Instead, set the thermostat between 68°F and 72°F. This offers a comfortable indoor temperature and helps limit the risk of skin dryness.
Install a Humidifier
A heating system may be used to warm up a home or office during wintertime, but it removes moisture from the air. Fortunately, a humidifier makes it simple to put moisture back into the air and prevent skin dryness.
Stay Hydrated
A cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa often is a must-have on a frigid winter day, but these beverages should not replace water. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during wintertime. The daily recommended amount of water for adults is eight 8-oz. glasses, according to Mayo Clinic. Stick to this goal, and if possible, choose a cup of warm water with lemon over coffee, tea or hot cocoa.
Exfoliate the Skin
Dead skin cells may accumulate on the hands and face in winter. To eliminate dead skin cells, use an exfoliating cream regularly. ZO Skin Health’s Exfoliating Cleanser and Exfoliating Polish, for example, may be beneficial during wintertime. The ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser unclogs pores, removes dirt and surface oil on the skin and soothes irritated skin. Meanwhile, the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish features magnesium crystals that remove dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin.
Choose the Right Skin Cleanser
Not all skin cleansers are identical, and some actually dry out the skin, particularly in winter. As such, it is important to evaluate skin cleansers closely and choose one that hydrates the skin. The ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser may prove to be exceedingly valuable, especially for people who are concerned about dry skin. This cleanser simultaneously removes skin impurities and hydrates the skin. It also is designed for all skin types.
Clearly, there are many things that can be done to minimize skin damage in winter. In addition to the aforementioned winter skin care tips, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles can provide expert skin care assistance year-round.
Dr. Azizzadeh has dual certification in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery (otolaryngology). Dr. Azizzadeh’s unique expertise allows him to provide comprehensive guidance as individuals search for the best ways to treat assorted skin conditions. Plus, as a ZO Skin Health physician partner, Dr. Azizzadeh offers ZO Skin Health products as part of a physician-supervised skin health program.
Dr. Azizzadeh is happy to meet with an individual and offer a personalized ZO Skin Health treatment recommendation. To set up a ZO Skin Health consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please contact us today at 310-657-2203.