CALL TODAY: In Florida, winter is a bit different from other parts of the US or around the world. While you’re unlikely to see freezing temperatures or snow, winter in Florida isn’t as humid and hot as it is during the spring or summer. The cooler temperatures can be bad news for your skin, unless you make a few small tweaks to your skin care routine. As you get ready for the cooler months, follow these winter skin care tips.
Switch Out Your Moisturizer
Ideally, you should have a summer (and spring and fall) moisturizer and a winter moisturizer. Thanks to the cold, dry air in the winter, the moisturizer you use during December, January, and February should be slightly heavier than the product you the rest of the year.
But don’t assume that a heavy, oily moisturizer is the right pick for everyone. The best facial moisturizer for you depends on your skin type. If you have skin that tends to be oily or that’s acne prone, using an oil-based, heavy moisturizer is a recipe for breakouts. Instead, you’ll want to look for a moisturizing product that’s oil-free and that won’t clog pores. If you aren’t sure what to use on your skin during the winter, your dermatologist can make recommendations.
Keep On Protecting Your Skin
Along with moisturizing your skin throughout the winter, it’s important to keep on protecting it from the sun’s UV rays. Since the days are so short during winter, people often make the mistake of skipping the sunscreen. But UVA rays can still contribute to wrinkles and other signs of aging, even if the sun is only out for a few hours. You can also still get a sunburn during the winter. Make sure to select a sunscreen that is labeled “Broad Spectrum” and has a SPF greater than 30.
Consider Microdermabrasion
It’s usually a good idea to ease up on intense skin treatments during the winter. The coldness and dryness can make skin more sensitive and more susceptible to irritation, especially if you’re regularly exfoliating.
But some treatments can be gentle enough for winter skin care, such as microdermabrasion. During microdermabrasion, your dermatologist uses a crystal-tipped tool to gently sweep away damaged skin cells. The treatment can help brighten your complexion and reduces the appearance of scars and other marks.
Find Ways to Add Humidity
While you might not be cranking up the heat in the middle of a Florida winter, the lack of humidity in the air can make it feel dry and uncomfortable inside your home. The dryness can make your skin drier or can make it more prone to irritation.
Fortunately, you can correct dryness by adding your own moisture to the air. An easy way to do that is to invest in a humidifier, which turns water into steam, helping to increase the humidity indoors. If you don’t want to invest in a humidifier, you can try placing bowls of water throughout your home or fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer on your stove.
Avoid the Long Hot Shower
Although you do want to find ways to make the air in your home less dry, one thing you should avoid it taking long, hot showers. The water vapor and moisture created by the shower might seem to help, but ultimately, the hot water just rinses away your skin’s natural oils, making it even drier.
Instead of spending 20 to 30 minutes in a hot shower, keep it under 5 or 10 minutes. Use tepid or lukewarm water instead of piping hot.
What else can you do to protect your skin from the cool, dry winter air? Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Diane Walder and her associates can give you tips and pointers for making it through a Miami winter. They can also recommend skin care treatments that will help keep your skin looking youthful and fresh all winter long.
To schedule a consultation, call (305) 866-2177 today.
