ÒWINTERIZING
YOUR SKINÓ
Winter
takes its special toll on your skin, which may still be recuperating from the
fiery assaults of summertime. Stressed from long, hot, moisture-barren days,
the drying effects of chlorinated water and air conditioning, too much time
outdoors in the sizzling summer sun your skin is ready to hibernate for the
winter. Instead of getting a much deserved rest and rejuvenation, it must work
overtime, preparing for the demanding task of defending itself against the woes
of winter weather.
The
chilling cold in the air from the sudden change of seasons can leave your skin
chapped and devastatingly dry. Our winter atmosphere is notorious for its
scarce humidity and is compounded by indoor heating, winterÕs most vicious
skin-drying scoundrel.
The
skin is the largest organ of the body and it is important that we understand it
has the ability to absorb as well as excrete. If we seal the skin with
petroleum based products although they do trap moisture next to your skin
giving the feeling of protection; they interfere with the skins ability to
eliminate toxins, which will only cause more scaling, flaking, thickening and
dryness.
Wintertime
skin care should be a high priority- both for prevention and preservation. Our
winter weather requires a dedicated daily regimen. By protecting your skin
during these dry winter months you can ward off damage before it occurs and
help prevent unnecessary premature aging.
Here
are some helpful skin saving suggestions-
Basic
to good skin care anytime of the year is plenty of fresh water and a healthy
diet that is devoid of overly processed foods.
Cut
moisture loss by lowering your thermostat and use a whole house humidifier.
Use
cosmetics and moisturizers that contain jojoba oil instead of petroleum based
products. This botanical most closely resembles your skinÕs own natural oils
and replenishes lost oil without clogging pores or blemishing skin.
.
Exfoliate
the skin with microderm abrasion beads. Avoid exfoliators that contain ground
seeds, which actually cause micro cuts in the skin. Sloughing off the dead
cells boosts circulation, promotes collagen production, and allows you to
moisturize the live skin underneath.
Moisturize
your skin from the inside. Add unsaturated fatty acids such as primrose oil,
fish oil or flaxseed to your diet.
Using
the sauna is also good for the skin. It allows for the elimination of toxins,
boosts circulation. If you do not have access to a sauna steam your face over a
pan of water. Add a few drops of chamomile or lavender to further enhance the
effects of the steam.
Spend
sometime everyday outdoors, even if for just a few minutes. Time outside helps
balance moisture and the pH of your skin.
Winter
presents its special challenges to staying healthy, your skin is no exception.
These common sense suggestions will help give your skin that healthy glow
despite the gloomy weather. Till next time, Rebecca