Winter Skin
Combatting Dry Skin in a Wisconsin Winter: Tips for Hydrated, Healthy Skin
Winter in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin, brings brutal temperatures, dry air, and harsh winds that can leave your skin feeling parched, irritated, and flaky. The cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating systems can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and discomfort. However, with the right skincare strategies, we can help you protect your skin and keep it healthy all season long. Here are some of our recommendations for effectively combating dry skin in the Wisconsin winter.
Elevate + Co.'s Recommendation:
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate One of the most important steps in combating dry skin is staying hydrated from the inside out. Cold weather can make it easy to forget to drink water, but it's essential for maintaining your skin's moisture levels. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and consider adding hydrating foods to your diet, such as cucumbers, oranges, and leafy greens. This internal hydration will help keep your skin from becoming too dry or flaky.
2. Switch to a Moisturizing Cleanser Many standard facial cleansers contain harsh ingredients that strip the skin of its natural oils. During the winter, it's crucial to switch to a more hydrating formula. Look for gentle, creamy cleansers that are free from sulfates and alcohol. These will clean your skin without removing essential moisture, allowing your skin to stay soft and smooth. Be sure to cleanse with lukewarm (not hot) water, as hot water can further dry out your skin. Our favorite during cold winter months is EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser which can be purchased in our practice.
3. Use Thick, Nourishing Moisturizers A rich moisturizer is essential to lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out. Choose a thicker, emollient moisturizer for the colder months, especially one with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. These help retain moisture and repair the skin’s barrier. Apply your moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your face to trap in as much moisture as possible. For extremely dry areas like elbows or knees, consider using a heavier ointment or balm overnight for extra hydration. Our favorite during the cold winter months is SkinBetter Science Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment.
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4. Invest in a Humidifier Indoor heating systems can make the air inside your home feel dry, which can contribute to skin irritation. To combat this, consider investing in a humidifier. This device will add moisture to the air, helping your skin retain hydration. Place one in your bedroom or living area to create a more skin-friendly environment. It's a simple, effective way to reduce dryness and prevent your skin from becoming too tight and uncomfortable. There are so many affordable options to get some extra moisture in the air!
5. Exfoliate, but Gently Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate deeper and work more effectively. However, it’s important to be gentle during the winter months. Harsh scrubs or over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and further dryness. Opt for mild exfoliants like enzymatic exfoliators or products containing lactic acid that hydrate as they exfoliate. Exfoliate once a week or every other week to maintain smooth, glowing skin without overdoing it. Looking for an exfoliating treatment this winter in our practice, book one our incredible facials!
6. Don’t Forget Your Hands and Lips In the winter, hands and lips are particularly susceptible to dryness. Keep a rich hand cream on hand and apply it throughout the day, especially after washing your hands. For your lips, use a hydrating lip balm with natural oils like shea butter or coconut oil to prevent chapping. Consider wearing gloves when outdoors to protect both your hands and lips from the biting wind. Our staff favorite in the winter is PCA Skin Overnight Lip Mask. Purchase in our practice! We know you will LOVE it.
7. Dress in Layers When braving the winter elements, make sure to bundle up in layers. Protect your skin by wearing gloves, scarves, and hats to shield yourself from the cold and wind. Choose fabrics like cotton or silk for undergarments to avoid irritation from wool or synthetic materials that can contribute to dryness. Stay warm out there!!
8. CO2 Lift Professional Mask
This innovative carboxytherapy treatment infuses your skin with intense moisture, boosting elasticity and leaving your complexion plump, smooth, and radiant. Perfect for all skin types, it’s the ultimate way to rejuvenate and refresh your skin from the inside out. Purchase in our practice this winter season!
9. Hydrafacial for Deep Hydration and Skin Rejuvenation
For an extra boost of hydration during the harsh Wisconsin winter, consider a Hydrafacial treatment. Hydrafacial is a non-invasive procedure that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin, leaving it instantly refreshed and nourished. The treatment infuses your skin with hydrating serums, including hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, to replenish moisture and promote a healthy, glowing complexion. It's perfect for combatting the dryness caused by cold air and indoor heating, providing immediate relief without downtime. Plus, Hydrafacial can help with other skin concerns like fine lines, sun damage, and acne, making it a versatile option for winter skincare.
Book your consultation at Elevate + Co. today!
Winter weather in Wisconsin can be especially harsh on the skin, but with a little extra care and the right products, you can keep your skin hydrated and comfortable all season long. Stay hydrated, moisturize generously, and be gentle with your skincare routine to keep dry skin at bay. By following these tips, you'll be able to weather the cold while maintaining healthy, glowing skin. If you need further assistance with your skincare needs, our amazing team of aesthetic providers will be happy to help!
