With the blistery cold temperatures, cool winds and dry Calgary air, comes a need to take a second look at our skin care routines. As a skin therapist, I’m constantly reminding my clients to protect their skin this winter. The same products that got us through milder months, likely won’t cut it through a cold and dry Calgary winter.
Here are a few tips to keep that beautiful skin of yours hydrated and protected this winter.
1. WATER. WATER. WATER.
I don’t think I can ever say this enough. Our bodies are made up primarily of water, so it’s absolutely key to hydrate your body from the inside out. The general rule of thumb is to take your weight, divide by two, to get your daily “suggested” water intake in ounces. IE. 130 lbs person = 130 / 2 = 65 ounces or approx. 8 cups of water. With the addition of exercise, alcohol or caffeinated beverages, this number should go up! Try tracking your water intake on a “post it” by your desk, or on an app, so it’s constantly top of mind. (Our favorite water app is Planet Nanny where you grow your cute little planet each day). Another great way to up your water intake is to add fresh fruit to your water, or drink herbal tea to give you a little flavor.
2. SUNSCREEN. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. –NO EXCEPTIONS!
As a skin geek this one is my favorite. If you’re anything like my best friend, wearing sunscreen is a chore in the summer and non-existent in the winter. Yes, in the winter months we have less sunlight, but sunshine on a snowy day can result in double UV exposure, meaning, that our skin is vulnerable to direct sunlight as well as rays reflected from the bright white snow. It’s actually just as important to wear a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection all year round. So, before going outdoors this winter, be sure to reach for a moisturizer with a sunscreen that contains an SPF of 30 or above, or look at adding a sun protector on top of your moisturizer.
3. MOISTURIZE
During the winter months, dry, cracked, flaky skin is common on the epidermis. Trading in a lighter year-round moisturizer for something thicker can be a better option, but please use discretion when switching things up. If your skin is oily or acne prone, some ingredients may lead to breakouts and clogged pores. Thankfully, there are other ways to seek hydration in the form of serums and lighter formulations. Ask your skin therapist to help you to pick up the right moisturizer for you.
4. PICK A MASQUE DAY
Choose one day a week and commit to that being your “Masque” day. Take a little “you” time, hydrate your skin, and while you’re at it, why not have a nice bubble bath, read a book and light a few candles. Committing to a hydrating masque once a week will help rejuvenate your skin and promote deeper hydration. If your skin is extremely dry or dehydrated, you can incorporate the masque into your regimen 2-3 times per week. Just remember that if you have acne prone skin, overuse of certain masques can lead to clogged pores, so try to resist the temptation of daily use. It’s all about balance!
5. BOOK A FACIAL
Speaking of balance… balance and consistency are key to having healthy skin. If possible, plan to see your skin therapist every 4 to 6 weeks to get a facial that’s best for your skin. This will be a good time to check in on your skin care routine and see how your skin is doing in these cold winter months. A good tip is to book your next appointment right after you finish a treatment to ensure you have the right timing and a time slot booked just for you.
Don’t forget that weather has a huge impact on our skin. As the temperatures change, be mindful of your skin and make adjustments as needed. Hydrate, wear sunscreen, moisturize, use masques and get regular facials to help keep your skin healthy and balanced. If you have any questions about your products, or are in need of a consultation or facial, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Stay Warm!
