Moisturize to the max. Because indoor and outdoor conditions are drier in winter, use moisturizers more frequently; you may also want to switch to heavier emollients and creams during this season. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to change lines or companies, since most skin-care lines have a variety of products to meet different needs. Switching between formulations, or from lighter to heavier creams, can rejuvenate your whole skin-care process. Now is a good time to try lotions that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic or lactic acid, which are effective for reversing dry skin and invisible lines at a deeper level.In addition to AHA's, many natural moisturizers feature antioxidants which further counteract the free-radical damage caused by winter sun. Common antioxidant ingredients include: alpha-lipoic acid, chamomile, green tea, grapeseed, ginkgo biloba, melatonin, and vitamins C and E. Other effective ingredients frequently found in natural moisturizers include oils derived from herbs, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. These include: coconut oil, and macadamiam nut oil. Look in your natural products store for products which are "dual purpose," that is, those which not only moisturize, but serve as a sunscreen, too. Also, if clay-based masks are part of your beauty regimen and your skin tends to be dry, in the winter especially, be sure to choose masks featuring moisturizing and conditioning ingredients especially designed for dry skin.Another factor particularly drying to skin and hair are artificial indoor heat sources. Furnaces tend to dry up moisture in the air, and even draw moisture from our skin. To overcome this drying effect, many professionals suggest using humidifiers to put moisture back in the air. This can be accomplished as cheaply as setting out pans or kettles of water or keeping water in sinks and tubs. A more costly, yet very effective, investment is a room humidifier. An especially good room to humidify is the bedroom, since we spend so much time there, and so that we are getting the maximum benefit while we rest.Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize this winter....
Comments