How to Prep Your Skin for Winter

Looks like it’s that time of year again when temps drop so low, your skin can’t even. Who wants to deal with flaking, chapping, peeling and cracking? Worst of all, these things definitely put a damper on our attempt at achieving perfect makeup application. But, don’t you worry, we’ve got a game plan set in place to keep your skin soft and smooth all winter. Here’s what you need to do!

1. Upgrade Your Moisturizer Formula

Lightweight lotion is a great option for the greasy nature of summer skin, but come winter, you’ve got to bump it up a notch. Opt for a rich moisturizer that’s loaded with hydrating and healing properties like botanical extracts, lipid rich oils, shea butter, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants (like vitamin E). And because winter is the time to reverse damage caused by all of those beach days, integrating a vitamin A-infused formula can address a variety of issues from sunspots and acne to fine lines and wrinkles.

Product Recommendations: The Body Shop Vitamin E Intense Moisturizer,  SkinCeuticals Emollience, La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Riche

2. Exfoliate

The key to maintaining summer skin in the winter is regular exfoliation — for both your face and body. Not only will it slough away dead skin cells, but it will also help your moisturizers absorb quicker and more effectively. Polishing skin with a gentle exfoliating scrub once or twice a week will make all the difference. Just keep some handy in your shower and give yourself a head-to-toe scrub!

Product Recommendations for Face: SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub, Kiehl’s Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub

Product Recommendations for Body: The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Rough Scrub,

Lancôme Exfoliant Fraîchelle

3. Take Shorter Showers

We know, this doesn’t sound pleasant especially since hot showers are a beloved pastime in the cold winter months. But, shortening showers not only helps reduce water consumption, it also keeps your skin from completely drying out. While you may want to crank the temp up and soak in the steam, you should be showering in lukewarm water — otherwise, the heat will essentially absorb all of the moisture in your skin and lead to dryness and flaking.  

4. Keep Balm Handy

Keep a compact body balm or salve handy at all times for moisturizing chapped lips or itchy elbows (courtesy of those knit sweaters we can’t get enough of!) wherever you are. Try the NYX All Over Balm, infused with natural oils like macadamia nut, coconut and argan oil for instant relief.

RELATED: Protect your skin with these hydrating makeup products

5. Sunscreen, SPF, Sun Protection!

We’re hoping you already know this one, but just to play it safe, we’re here to remind you! Rain, snow or shine, sun protection (SPF 30) should be applied daily — wintertime included! You’re just as susceptible UV ray exposure and sun damage this time of year, as the sun’s rays reflect and bounce off the snow (even if it’s a cloudy day). So, the best decision you can make for yourself and your skin is to continue using your sunblock liberally!