It’s winter and the cold weather is upon us. As the temperature drops, it’s important for men to change their skin care regime to overcome and avoid having dry, irritated, and cracked skin that’s caused by the cold weather. With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of cold weather skin care tips that’ll help you maintain your skins health during the long winter months.
Cleanse your skin. Rinse your face with a gentle face wash, instead of soap, which will dry out your skin. You should clean your face at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening before you go to sleep. Products like MenScience’s Daily Face Wash contains hydrating ingredients like glycerine and aloe that can help replenish the skins moisture during the winter.
Exfoliate regularly. During the colder months, skin cells slow down their production. However, it’s still important to exfoliate. You should exfoliate at least once a week to allow for the removal of dirt and dead skin cells from the skins surface, while avoiding irritation or increased oily skin production. Exfoliating also preps the skin for a closer shave and reduces the risk of razor burn and ingrown hairs. Products like Jack Black’s Face Buff Energizing Scrub contains menthol and vitamin C that can help wake-up and invigorate the skin while micro-fine scrubbing particles open blocked pores and remove imbedded dirt, oil and dead skin cells.
Keep your skin hydrated. Moisturizing your skin all year round is a must, but it’s especially important when the temperature plummets and the humidity levels drop. After cleansing and exfoliating your skin, apply a high-quality moisturizer to your face which will help keep your skin looking healthy and youthful, while preventing patches of dry skin and eczema. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture is vitamin enriched and non-oily which wakens and uplifts dull, fatigued skin.
Protect your lips. Moisturizing your lips is just as important as your face. Dry, cracked lips can be aggravating and very painful. Cold, winter air can easily dry your lips out and lead to chapping. Use a lip balm daily to retain natural moisture in your lips. A product like Nivea Lip Balm effectively moisturises and protects lips without leaving, a white shiny film, and is small enough to fit easily in your pocket.
Moisturize your body. As you’ll be wearing layers during the winter, your body won’t be as sensitive compared to the areas mentioned above. However without proper care, your skin will feel the effects of the cold weather. If you’re prone to dry skin throughout your body, apply a body lotion daily after showering. Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Moisturiser replenishes and restores lost moisture while preventing further loss and enhances the skins natural protective layer.
Protect your skin from the sun. Although the sun is probably the last thing on your mind during the winter, it’s still important to protect your skin from the suns UV rays. When it’s cold out, the sun’s UV rays can be harmful, especially if reflected off snow or ice. Therefore it’s important to consider getting a moisturizer with a moderate SPF rating. Both moisturizers mentioned above; Kiehl’s Facial Fuel (15 SPF) and Nivea Lip Balm (6 SPF) offer protection from skin-damaging UV rays.
Shower the right way. Avoid using extra hot water whilst showering or washing your face. A steaming hot shower may be tempting on a cold winter’s morning, but keep your shower lukewarm. Very hot water evaporates quickly and can actually dehydrate your skin, leading to further problems. Try to keep your showers under 10 minutes and make sure you apply moisturizer within five minutes of stepping out of the shower to lock in moisture.
Wear Layers. Layering is the best way to protect your skin from cold weather and keep you warm. Dressing in layers allows you to remove clothing when necessary, and remove wet clothing, which can cause dry, itchy skin. Cover your skin as much as possible. A hat is particularly important since it keeps you scalp warm and can minimize dandruff, and don’t forget gloves, as hands are prone to getting chapped. “The Importance of Layering Your Clothing in Cold Weather” explains how to layer clothing correctly during the winter months.
Avoid antibacterial gels and wipes. Although it may be tempting to use antibacterial gels and wipes to protect you from the seasons colds and illnesses, these products contain alcohol which deprives the skin of moisture. If you need to use such products, use them sparingly.
Drink plenty of water. Finally, staying hydrated is very important during the winter, so drink plenty of water while you’re out. Drinking extra water is essential since your skin can start to dry out even when you’re not feeling thirsty.
