With the cold weather approaching, you may think your healthy skin care routine should change. It may surprise you to learn the answer is usually no… but sometimes yes! Here’s the lowdown on the myths you may hear about and be tempted to accept, and the real facts that will help you keep your skin fresh and dewy through the frigid days.
1. Myth: Sunscreen isn’t necessary in cold months.
Reality: On cold, overcast days, most UV rays still penetrate through the clouds, meaning your skin is still at risk for damage. And snow on the ground can reflect up to 80 percent of UV rays, increasing your exposure, especially if you’re spending time outdoors with activities like skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. The answer? Wear your sunscreen!
2. Myth: Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer in winter.
Reality: All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. Cold air can strip moisture from the skin, and normal oil production doesn’t necessarily mean your skin is adequately hydrated. Indoor heating systems, which are often on full blast in the winter, can create a dry environment that depletes the skin of moisture. Oily skin is not immune to this, so a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer can help replenish lost hydration.
3. Myth: You don’t need to drink as much water in winter.
Reality: People often drink less water in the colder months, thinking they don’t need as much. But to maintain healthy skin all year, hydration from the inside out is important. Indoor heating systems reduce humidity levels, leading to increased water loss from the skin and respiratory system. This can cause your body to lose moisture without you realizing it.
In cold temperatures, your body tends to conserve heat by directing blood flow away from the extremities and towards your core. This triggers your kidneys to produce more urine (a phenomenon called cold-induced diuresis), increasing water loss. So keep drinking plenty of water!
4. Myth: You only need to moisturize once a day in winter.
Reality: Skin tends to lose moisture faster in cold weather due to low humidity, so it may be necessary to moisturize multiple times throughout the day, especially after washing.
Fall and winter require robust skincare strategies. You might need richer moisturizers, more frequent moisturizing, and ingredients like hyaluronic acid to counteract the effects of dry, cold air.
5. Myth: Exfoliation isn’t necessary during winter
Reality: Cold weather and dry indoor air can cause your skin to become rough and flaky. Gently exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, allowing fresh, healthy skin to emerge and making it easier for moisturizers to penetrate and hydrate.
Exfoliation encourages cell turnover, helping the skin renew itself more effectively. This can lead to a brighter, more radiant complexion, which is often lost in the dullness of winter.
Choose gentle, hydrating exfoliators such as mild chemical exfoliants (like lactic acid or glycolic acid) or enzyme-based scrubs. Avoid harsh, gritty physical exfoliants that can further irritate dry, sensitive winter skin.
Bonus tip: For chapped lips, a good lip balm helps, while licking your lips can worsen dryness. Lip balms with fragrances or alcohol can actually exacerbate chapping. Be sure to look for balms with hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin.
For a healthy, glowing complexion, be sure to practice healthy skin habits all year ‘round.