As winter sets in, the battle for supple, glowing skin becomes more challenging. Dr. Prasanthi Purusothaman, a General Practitioner and Cosmetic Doctor, explains that the colder months create a perfect storm for damaging the skin barrier due to plummeting humidity levels. The dry air acts like a magnet, sucking moisture from the skin, both indoors and outdoors, exacerbated by heating systems that further dry the air.
To combat these effects, Dr. Purusothaman recommends several beauty swaps to heal and protect the skin during winter. Starting with cleansers, she advises opting for cream or oil-based formulas with specific ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, or niacinamide to improve barrier function without elevating the skin’s pH excessively.
Transitioning to heavier creams from lightweight lotions is crucial in winter, understanding the roles of humectants, emollients, and occlusives in moisturizers. These ingredients work together to hydrate and protect the skin, with formulations containing skin-identical components like glycerin, squalane, and ceramides being particularly beneficial.
Serums and facial oils play a vital role in winter skincare, delivering concentrated actives and lipids to restore the skin barrier. Layering lightweight serums under thicker moisturizers can significantly boost hydration levels, with ingredients like linoleic acid, sunflower seed oil, and chia seeds aiding in barrier repair and hydration.
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While exfoliation is still suitable in winter, caution is advised to prevent worsening barrier damage. Dr. Purusothaman recommends gentle chemical exfoliants over physical scrubs, emphasizing the importance of listening to your skin’s needs and prioritizing moisturization to repair the skin barrier.
Special care should be given to the delicate areas around the eyes and lips, which are more susceptible to winter damage due to their thinner skin and fewer sebaceous glands. Using products with peptides, ceramides, and occlusives can help protect and nourish these areas, ensuring they stay hydrated and healthy during the colder months.
Despite the misconception that sun protection is less critical in winter, Dr. Purusothaman highlights the continued importance of wearing sunscreen daily, even in colder climates. UV radiation can still penetrate the skin, leading to cumulative damage and potential skin cancer risks. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 and regular reapplication is essential for year-round skin protection.
As the winter season approaches, incorporating these expert-recommended beauty swaps and skincare practices can help maintain a healthy skin barrier, ensuring supple, glowing skin even in the harshest conditions.
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