Winter Hydration Techniques

In winter, we take extra care to slather on creams and lotions, but what happens when even the most stringent hydration techniques aren’t working for you? Discover a few extra tips to fight the arid winter climate and get your skin back to beautiful.

Deal with dry air.

Staying warm in winter is priority number one, but the dry heat coming from your furnace can do more harm than good. Because winter air lacks humidity, you’re exposed to moistureless atmospheric molecules. So instead of cranking the thermostat, bundle up with extra layers. If dry heat is a perpetual problem, invest in a humidifier for your home.

Avoid dehydrating ingredients.

Without realizing it, ingredients in your favorite skin care products can actually dry out the surface of your skin. Avoid alcohol-based toners and cleanser, which will strip your epidermis of its natural oils. Add extra moisture throughout the day by spritzing a specially formulated French thermal water mist all over your face, neck, and décolletage.

Take advantage of bedtime.

Skin needs a little extra attention in winter, but you can let your treatments work while you sleep. Create your own DIY conditioning oils using ingredients from your kitchen. Slather the oils onto the driest areas of your body (usually hands, feet, elbows, and knees), wrap the treated areas with plastic wrap to lock in hydration, then hit the sack.

This article was originally published on November 28, 2011