Winter is Coming!

Winter weather is harsh on your skin and hair; a few changes in your basic skin care routine will help you glow through the winter months!

Remember osmosis from high school biology?

“In biology, osmosis is the movement of water molecules from a solution with a high concentration of water molecules to a solution with a lower concentration of water molecules, through a cells partially permeable membrane.”

What that means is that all the water in your skin (higher concentration) gets sucked out into the dry winter air (lower concentration) unless you’ve sealed it in with something that is less permeable than your skin. (ie oil and serums)  So…..It’s time to replace your lighter summer water based moisturizer with a heavier moisturizer containing a few key ingredients and a facial oil and/or serums. In summer, it’s all about sun protection.  In winter it’s all about maintaining a healthy barrier to keep the elements out and healthy hydration in.

Protection doesn’t need to break the bank!

You probably have Oils around your house right now!  Try Olive Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil. All are available at your market at a reasonable price.  Just add a few drops of your favorite essential oil if you like.  Jojoba or Argon Oil are a step up and easily available as well.

When you’re shopping for a winter moisturizer, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, shea butter and glycerin. A couple of extra creamy moisturizers that I personally like and use are:  The Borage Butter Face Cream and the Vanilla Bean Lucious Face Cream (pure decadence in a jar), both from Wild Carrot.  I also like the Triple C Night Cream from Mad Hippie.   

(Available at Natural Grocers or on their websites:  WildCarrotHerbals.com  and  MadHippie.com)

Exfoliation is even more important in Winter!

Frigid temperatures and harsh winds can create a “crust” on the surface of even the best protected skin.  Exfoliate at least once a week.  Use your favorite oil with a drop of essential oil and some sugar for an excellent and inexpensive sugar scrub!  If you’re prone to acne and blackheads, try using a paste of baking soda and water once a week, but be sure to tone with witch hazel afterwards to restore your skin’s pH.  If you’re looking for a really great product with a few yummy extras, try the Microdermabrasion Facial from Mad Hippie. 

(Available at Natural Grocers or online at MadHippie.com)

And… Get a professional facial or microdermabrasion.

A microdermabrasion once a quarter will keep the “Colorado Crust” at bay and allow all the ingredients in your favorite moisturizer to penetrate and soak into your skin where they can do the most good.  

A combination of the right products, consistent weekly home maintenance, and the occasional professional treatment, is all you need to “glow” even in the darkest days of winter!

Next Month:  The Differences between Manual and Chemical Exfoliation.