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Top 5 Tips to Prepare Your Skin for Winter

During the winter months, it’s important to take extra care of your skin. The dry, cold air can dehydrate and irritate skin, leading to redness and even cracked, painful skin. You don’t have to avoid going outside this winter if you take some precautions now to keep your skin healthy and hydrated during this time of year. With these top 5 tips on how to prepare your skin for winter, you’ll be feeling like you spent all summer on the beach by the time spring rolls around again!

1) Exfoliate

The first thing you should do before winter is exfoliate. Exfoliation removes dry and dead skin cells, which makes it easier for your moisturizer to penetrate the skin and help protect it from the harsh winter elements like cold, wind and rain.

There are many different types of exfoliation methods:
● chemical peels
● microdermabrasion
● mechanical scrubbing with a Clarisonic brush or a face brush, or using a loofah sponge.

A word of caution: if you have sensitive skin that is prone to redness or irritation, you may want to avoid harsher methods such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion (especially during the winter). If so, opt for an at-home scrub that’s gentle enough for your skin type. An integral aspect of LaVida Massage + Skincare’s Signature Facial is a deep exfoliation.

2) Moisturize

One of the most important things you can do for your skin during the winter is protect it. Moisturizing will help keep your skin plump, soft and hydrated by sealing in moisture and locking out harsh weather elements like wind and cold air. When choosing a moisturizer, look for a formula that contains plant-based oils like jojoba or almond oil.

One of our favorite moisturizers is Dermalogica’s Skin Soothing Cream Moisturizer to use before applying makeup. It leaves skin feeling silky and smooth while providing an extra layer of protection against the damaging effects of winter’s cold air.

3) Take care of your lips

Your lips can get dry in the wintertime, and this can lead to them cracking and bleeding. We recommend taking care of your lips before you go out into the cold. Here are some tips on how to keep your kissers ready for winter:
– Keep your hydrated by drinking lots of water.
– Always put on lip balm before going outside.
– When you’re indoors, make sure there’s a humidifier in the room.

4) Protect your skin from the sun

This may sound like a weird tip since we are talking about winter. But you’d be surprised to know that UV rays are still hitting your skin during the dark months.

One of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun is by wearing sunscreen every day. Covering up with light clothing and broad-brimmed hats will also help. You can also use a parasol or umbrella when you’re out in the sun, and use sunscreen on your hands when you’re gardening or playing sports. If you are spending a lot of time outdoors in cold weather, dress warmly and wear a scarf around your neck.

5) Drink water

It is important to drink water in the winter because it not only hydrates you, but also balances your body’s PH levels and helps keep your skin hydrated. When it’s cold outside, many people tend to drink more coffee or alcohol which has a dehydrating effect on the body. Try drinking eight glasses of water a day- and if you want some flavor, try adding lemon or cucumbers. Drinking plenty of water is one way you can help prepare your skin for winter!

This year, prepare your skin for winter by starting your wellness regimen early. For affordable signature and ultrasonic facials, professional waxing services, and designer peels, book an appointment at LaVida Massage + Skincare today!