You probably love the warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine of summer, and your skin seems to revel in it as much as you do. Sure, you have to use a good sunscreen, but the humidity keeps your face looking vibrant.

 

When the mercury begins to fall, though, it’s time not only to bring out your warmer clothes but also to adjust your skincare routine. 

 

So, Why is winter so hard on your skin? 

 

The frosty air may feel delicious on your face, but when the temperature drops, so does the humidity.
That combination is drying, and the time outdoors isn’t your only challenge—indoor heating also tends to produce dryer air.  A double whammy! 

 

So you come in from an afternoon walk in the snow, and a long, hot shower sounds like just the thing. 
Basking in that stream of hot water feels heavenly, but it also dries your skin, stripping it of beneficial natural oils.

 

So, apart from moving to the tropics, what can you do?

 

Combatting the cold

 

First, do what you can to control your environment.  Investing in a humidifier for your home is a terrific idea. 
In the shower, curb your urge to turn up the water temperature. Take shorter, lukewarm showers—your skin (and your utility bills!) will benefit.

 

Finally, resist the temptation to crank up the thermostat, either in your home or in your car, because both will dry the air. Put on an extra layer of clothing to stay comfortable—your face will thank you. 

 

Winter-wear for your skin

 

When you put away the silk and bring out the wool, it’s time to shift your skin-care regimen too. 
First, take a look at your soaps:  are they drying your skin at the same time they’re cleaning it? Particularly in the colder months, look for hydrating and fragrance-free soaps and body washes. 

 

At this time of year, it’s all about moisture, so when you step out of that not-too-hot shower, while your skin is still damp, reach for some rich moisturizers for both your body and face. You’ll want heavier, more nourishing creams than you used in summer.

 

While you’re at it, take a look at the facial cleanser you’re using. In winter, you’ll need a milder, gentler one, as your skin will be deprived of the natural oils it enjoyed in the warm, humid months.  

 

A secret winter-time weapon

 

Two words:  hyaluronic acid.  Sound alarming?  Relax—your skin produces it naturally, and its function is to maintain the skin’s hydration and elasticity.  Age, wintery conditions, and other factors, however, can decrease its production. 

 

Particularly when the climatic conditions are at war with your skin, you need a serum that will give your face every advantage. Enter the Age Defense Hybrid Serum from 180 Cosmetics.
With its three-layer hyaluronic acid and natural hemp seed and jojoba oils, this serum is both protective and restorative. It provides the deep moisture your skin craves and retains the hydration that winter tries mightily to strip away. Although the Age Defense Hybrid Serum is a gift to your skin year-round, it’s indispensable in the winter.