Cooler temperatures this time of year can wreak havoc on your skin. Wellness expert Shahada Karim believes it’s a good idea to change your skin routing with the changing seasons. “Even if you don’t traditionally suffer from dryness, you may find it more challenging to keep your skin hydrated during the cooler months.”
- Make friends with dry brushing. “Dry brushing before a shower removes dead skin cells, improves circulation, plumps skin and promotes lymph flow and drainage.” Karim suggests a starting at the ankles and gently brushing ‘upward’ toward the center of the body. Brush from wrists to shoulders and gently make circles on the abdomen. “When choosing a dry brush, remember that more expensive isn’t always better. You can get a good, effective brush for a few dollars.”
- Turn down the temperature in the shower. “Hot water actually dries out your skin. And the longer your shower, the more you prolong the potential for damage.” Karim suggests taking shorter showers in lukewarm water. “Stay in long enough to soap up and rinse off.”
- Don’t dry off completely. “Pat your skin dry to get most of the water off your body, but leave enough to help conduct your moisturizer.” Karim notes that water is a great conductor for moisturizers, by helping them more easily spread and absorb.
- Upgrade your moisturizer. “Lotions and light oils are great during the spring and summer months. But in the winter it’s a good idea to go heavier with rich creams and balms.” Karim says that thicker formulations tend to stay on the skin longer to help keep you from drying out. “Remember that not all moisturizers are created equal, so read your ingredients! Steer clear of products with ‘fillers’ like water and wax. Look for hydrating formulas full of rich oils and natural butters.”