Updated: January 2021
Those of us that have experienced dry skin on a winter vacation know just how uncomfortable it can be. We’re all familiar with a sunburn in the summer, but cracked skin in the winter can be even more painful! And don’t even get me started on those terrible sunburns you can get while in the snow!
Going from brisk temperatures outdoors to heat indoors causes major drying and can wreak havoc on your skin. But, not to worry, there are plenty of ways to prevent chapped lips and dry skin—so head on to your winter vacay prepared!
Here are my skincare tips for your winter vacation!
SPF
Just because it’s cold or cloudy doesn’t mean you can’t get sunburned! UV exposure increases 4-5 percent with every 1,000 feet above sea level. If you’re headed to the mountains, you better apply that SPF to your face, ears, scalp, and lips!
The most important skincare product you can use on a daily basis is sunscreen.
While you might not be heading somewhere tropical (or who knows—maybe you prefer to escape the cold!), I highly suggest checking out reef-safe sunscreens to prevent polluting our water sources with harmful chemicals.
Moisturize
In the warmer months of the year, you may only need a light moisturizer after a shower. However, cold winter weather dries out your skin, stripping it of natural oils and causing it to crack and flake.
Moisturize After You Shower
Your skin not only needs extra moisture in the winter but moisture right after you shower—especially if you’re taking a hot shower. I keep a bottle of this natural body lotion (made with aloe + essential oils) right outside the shower, so as soon as I towel dry, I apply and lock that dampness into my skin. Coconut oil is also an effective, affordable option for a deep moisturizer (but it is known to clog pores, so keep it off your face!).
For Dry Skin, Eczema, and More
With the cold weather, dry, windy air, and frequent handwashing, many people will experience cracked and irritated dry skin due to dermatitis and eczema flare-ups. If this sounds like you, I recommend the gentle exederm Flare Control Cream. Meyer, my husband, struggles with sensitive skin and eczema, and this whole clean product line has been amazing for him.
Avoid Hot Showers + Baths
Or at the very least—limit your time!
Use a Humidifier
Heating, whether it’s central heating or a space heater, dries the air in your home and office. By using a humidifier, you add moisture back into the air, keeping your skin from drying out. Having one by your bedside is most important, but the more around the house, the better!
Hydrate from the Inside
Whether you see the results in your skin or not, your body needs water to stay hydrated.
If you find yourself slacking on your “8 glasses a day,” try adding lemon to warm water for soothing refreshment.
I find that stocking up on herbal teas keeps me drinking more water all winter long!
Gently Exfoliate
Regularly exfoliating your face and body helps shed dead skin and will make your moisturizers work better. The less dead skin, the easier it is for your moisturizer to absorb and to help keep your skin healthy. I love this body scrub and use it once a week!
Be careful not to scrub *too* hard though—you don’t want to irritate your skin but just a gentle exfoliation should do.
