Reminder: Modify Your Skincare Regimen!

People often think that winter skincare isn’t as important as skincare in other seasons. Temperatures are cool, the sky is often cloudy…what special care do you need?

Quite a bit, actually!

Why is my skin so dry in the winter?

According to De Silva Dermatology’s Dr. John Martin, “The sunlight may not seem to be so harsh, but dry skin is actually exacerbated in colder months. Cold, dry air strips the skin of its moisture, and indoor heating does the same thing.”

Besides dryness, other conditions can increase in intensity during winter months: redness, rosacea and UV damage, all of which can accelerate the look of aging.

If you’re a fan of winter sports such as skiing and ice skating, moisturizer and sunblock are absolutely essential. Winter sun, along with snow glare, can impact your skin’s health faster than you realize.

To minimize winter-related skin dryness, modify your routine with moisturizing, hydrating products. You should also exfoliate regularly and use a humidifier indoors so that the air isn’t so dry.

Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors?

Most definitely. Even without direct sunlight, your skin can be affected by:

UV rays: Even without direct exposure, these rays can pass through window glass and damage your skin. They are also known to increase the risk of skin cancer.

Blue light: The blue light emitted from computer screens has been associated with increased skin hyperpigmentation.

Skin aging: Wearing sunscreen, even indoors, helps to slow the signs of aging skin.

What should I use — and how often should I use it?

Dr. Holly Volz adds: “Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a 35 SPF rating to your face and all exposed areas of skin about 30 minutes before going outside, Make sure to reapply it frequently, about every two hours, if you’re outside for an extended period of time.”

How can I maintain my skin’s moisture?

We’ve said it so much, it’s practically a mantra — but it bears repeating!

Take shorter, cooler showers: A hot shower sounds great when it’s chilly outside, but that’s one thing you shouldn’t do. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a five- to 10-minute shower at a lukewarm temperature. Hot water washes away essential oils, making your skin even dryer.

Wash your hands in cool water: The CDC advises that cooler water is just as good at getting rid of germs as hot water.

Use fragrance-free cleansers and washes: Scented soaps and cleansers contain ingredients that can irritate your skin. Use a fragrance-free moisturizing cleanser instead. Your skin will thank you.

Don’t overdo the heat: Along with humidifier use, keep the thermostat lower. 68 to 72 degrees is comfortable enough, and will prevent your skin from drying out. And if you have a fireplace, don’t sit too close to it. The heat will do the same thing!

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated, especially those hands that you’re washing constantly. Apply hand cream after each washing.

Adopt a winter skincare routine: Use cream-based cleansers and avoid astringents, which can irritate and dry out your skin. The AAD recommends that you eliminate the use of products that contain alcohol and fragrance, especially if you’re already combating dryness. And don’t forget the lips!

Eat right: Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, nuts and seeds can help combat skin dryness.

Wear clothing that doesn’t irritate: Wool sweaters and other roughly textured clothing put directly against your skin can cause it to become even more irritated and itchy. Put on a light layer of softer, breathable material first to act as a barrier and then add the sweater.

What products does DeSilva Dermatology carry that provide winter skincare?

Revision Skincare DEJ Daily Boosting Serum: Advanced age-defying serum to rejuvenate and energize fatigued skin. The only anti-aging serum that boosts skin’s cellular energy, is now available in a 2.0 fl oz size.  Also comes in 0.5 fl oz travel size and 1.0 fl oz size. 

Revision Skincare Intellishade Moisturizer SPF 45: Along with broad-spectrum protection against UV rays, this product also works as an anti-aging moisturizer. The sheer-coverage formula hides the appearance of discoloration, redness, large pores and dark spots for a more even tone. This Revision tinted moisturizer also contains peptides and other anti-aging ingredients that minimize fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth texture and youthful look.

sunbetter SHEER SPF 56 Sunscreen Compact: Broad spectrum protection that provides priming benefits with no tint and a sheer finish. Helps prevent sunburn if used as directed with other sun protection measures to decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.

Do you have any questions or concerns about your skin’s overall health? Contact DeSilva Dermatology at (830) 331-4150 for a consultation or to purchase products.  Products can also be purchased online at https://www.desilvaderm.com/cosmetic-services/products/.