Winter Skin Care Myths and Facts
Myth: The thicker the cream,the more moisturizing it is.
Fact: Thick doesn’t equal moisture. The heaviness of a cream is often due to the lipids and emulsifiers in the formula, and sometimes heavyweight creams can leave skin looking dull while trapping dead cells and affecting skin function. Layering fluids and moisturizers is often the best remedy.
Myth: You don’t have to apply sunscreen as obsessively in the winter as you do in the summer.
Fact: Winter, spring, summer or fall: if there is daylight, you’re still
exposed to UV light and free radical damage. And if sunscreen helps prevent the signs of aging, why wouldn’t you want to wear it every day? A minimum of SPF15 is suggested for everyday use, and skin showing the signs of aging should wear an SPF30.
Myth: Skip exfoliation so you don’t dry everything out.
Fact: Quite the opposite! Exfoliation causes a burst in cell renewal, moving newer, moisture-rich cells to the surface. Exfoliation also removes old dead cells and dry skin, providing a smoother, brighter surface while enabling effective penetration of hydrating ingredients into the skin.
Myth: Hot, steamy showers are great for skin.
Fact: No – especially in winter! Hot water causes a stripping effect to delicate barrier lipids in-between the cells; when the lipids are removed, essential moisture below evaporates out. Combine hot showers with irritation caused by winter wardrobe made of synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester and you’ve got an itchy, irritated skin situation! Warm water is best for skin when used together with a soap-free body wash such as Conditioning Body Wash. Bar soap or high foam-producing, artificially-perfumed shower gels will dry out the skin.
Myth: For dry lips, just apply more lip balm.
Fact: Some lip balms can create more bad than good. Mineral oil (petroleum jelly) creates an artificial film on the lips, and this gives the skin the illusion that it doesn’t need to produce lipids. These ingredients together with artificial flavors, colors, and fragrances can dry out the skin. Use lip healthy alternatives containing Shea Butter, Silicones, Cocoa Seed Butter, Avocado Oil, and Wheat Germ.
Myth: Let your skin hibernate and cut back on treatments.
Fact: Winter is actually the best time to take care of your skin with professional treatments. Skin may need more help, especially dry, sensitive/sensitized, and rosacea prone skins. Professional oatmeal masques are wonderful during the winter season!
As legs, underarms, and bikini aren’t as exposed, this is also a great time to start a hair removal routine.
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