Winter Skin’s A Bummer

I think it’s safe to say that we are all over winter. It’s snowing (too much for my Virginia raised taste), it’s freezing always, and my skin is paying the price for this cold. I’ve have decided enough is enough. I am taking control of my skin and bringing it back to its hydrated glory.

I’ve talked to a few of our resident estheticians and done some research in the hopes to be able to bring you a few helpful tips to cure your winter (blues) skin.

1. Avoid showering or washing your face in hot water. Luke warm water is best to avoid stripping good oils and drying out your skin.
2. Use moisturizer immediately after cleansing the skin to lock in moisture. Be sure to moisturize day and night. You can use whatever you like but some personal favorites of mine are Image Hydrating Repair Creme and  MADs Delicate Soothing Night Cream. The hydrating repair creme is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A,C,E and promotes healthy cell renewal. MADs Delicate Soothing Night Cream is lightweight, creamy and non pore clogging. It absorbs quickly to leave your skin hydrated but never oily.
3. Drink lots of water. I know this one is difficult, but to stay properly hydrated you need at least two liters of water a day. Our bodies use water to flush toxins and carry vital nutrients to your cells. Believe it or not, not having enough water has a huge impact on your skin. For glowing, dewy, hydrated skin, drink lots of water!
4. Eat foods high in water content to help you get your water intake up. Watermelons, cantaloupe, oranges, cucumbers and zucchinis are just a few of the delicious things you can eat to help your skin.
5. Don’t forget sunscreen! Most people think they only need to wear sunscreen during the warmer weather, this is totally false! Winter weather and sun can be just as damaging. My favorite moisturizer with a built in sunscreen is Image Prevention Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30. It’s basically a kill three birds with one stone product. It’s hydrating, sun protection with a beautiful light coverage that is perfect for a busy day when I’m just trying to get out the door on time.

Eager to get started refreshing and hydrating that skin? Here are a few budget friendly diy face masks made from ingredients that you probably already have lying around the house.

-Honey and Yogurt Mask

Mix together 1 tbsp or natural unflavored yogurt and 1 tsp of honey. Apply to clean face with hands or a cotton ball. Relax and let sit for 10-30 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and moisturizer immediately.

-Avocado and Almond Oil Mask

Mix together ¼ of a mashed avocado, 1 tsp of almond oil and 1 tbsp of honey. Apply to clean face and let sit for ten minutes. Take a warm washcloth and lay it over your face for one minute and then wash the mask off. Moisturize immediately.

Just for a sweet added bonus I thought I would throw in a diy sugar lip scrub. Winter can be tough on your lips too and with this scrub they will stay silky smooth all winter long.

Mix together 1 part brown sugar, 1 part coconut oil and 1 part honey. You can make a large batch to keep and use daily or a small one just to try out.  Once mixed gently scrub lips. You can use your finger or apply with a clean tooth brush. Rinse with warm water and apply your favorite lip balm!

Hope these tips help you! What’s your favorite way to maintain glowing skin in the cold winter months? Comment below, we’d love to hear from you!