Is your skin extremely dry with this brutally cold winter?

It’s tough to avoid the elements… I often wish I could snap my fingers and be on a beach somewhere in the Caribbean or French Polynesian Islands…  but that is highly unlikely! You don’t need much to have glorious skin during the winter months – there are ways to having better skin this winter.  Read our winter skin tips and if you have any tips to share, please do so in the comments!

Here are 5 Ways to Better Skin this Winter:

1. Moisturize

Yes you should moisturize all year round but during winter minds, you will need a little more protection from the cold harsh elements. You may look for an oil-based moisturizer that is non-clogging containing almond, avocado or Vitamin E oil. Some people swear by using coconut oil to hydrate skin because it conditions, moisturizes, and softens skin and doesn’t contain petroleum by-products like many commercial moisturizers.

2. Wear SPF

Sunscreen isn’t just for summer – the sun’s rays can still damage your skin during winter months. Use a sunscreen moisturizer on your face about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside for several hours (if you’re a brave ski bunny!)

3. Wear Gloves

The skin on your hands is thinner than on other part body of your and has fewer oil glands so you need to keep your hands moisturized during winter months. I try to protect my hands at home by wearing rubber gloves when I’m doing dishes or cleaning.  At night, slather a good hand cream and put on a cotton glove and wear overnight.

4. Don’t take long hot baths

As tempting as it may be, a hot shower or bath can strip away moisture by breaking down lipid barriers in the skin so keep showers short. If you must take a bath, make sure the water is lukewarm and add oatmeal or baking soda to help soothe itchy skin. Don’t rub with a towel after your bath either – pat dry.

5. Humidify

The indoors can also be dry because of the furnace working all day. Adding a humidifier will put more moisture in the air, helping your skin from drying. You can also add a bowl of water in your bedroom to help you sleep better at night, or even around the house if you don’t have a humidifier.