As the seasons shift from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter, our environment undergoes significant changes that affect not only how we feel, but also how our skin behaves. In New York, this transition can be especially noticeable, as the crisp fall air gives way to harsh, cold winter winds. If you’re noticing your skin becoming drier, tighter, or more sensitive, you’re not alone. Let’s explore why this happens and how you can adjust your skincare routine to protect your skin and keep it glowing through the colder months.
The Environmental Changes: Summer to Winter in New York
The environment around us changes drastically as summer fades and winter sets in. Here’s what’s happening in the atmosphere:
- Lower Temperatures: As temperatures drop, the air becomes cooler and drier. This impacts the moisture levels in the air, leaving your skin more vulnerable to dehydration.
- Reduced Humidity: During winter, the humidity levels in the air decrease significantly, which can cause the skin to lose its natural moisture. This is especially true indoors, where heaters can dry out the air even more.
- More Wind Exposure: Cold winds strip away the skin’s protective barrier, making it more prone to irritation and dryness.
- Shorter Days: With less sunlight and shorter days, the skin receives less exposure to beneficial natural light, which can affect its ability to produce vitamin D. This can contribute to duller, more tired-looking skin.
How These Environmental Changes Affect Your Skin
As the season changes, so does your skin’s needs. Here’s how your skin might react to the transition from summer to winter:
- Dryness & Dehydration: The cold, dry air strips away moisture from your skin, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and dehydrated.
- Increased Sensitivity: Harsh winds, low humidity, and indoor heating can irritate your skin, causing redness, itching, and an overall compromised skin barrier.
- Dullness: The reduced sunlight, combined with a lack of exfoliation in colder months, can lead to dull, lackluster skin.
- Breakouts: Paradoxically, some people may experience acne or congestion in the winter. This is often due to the overproduction of oil, which can be triggered by dry conditions or over-moisturizing with heavy products.
How to Combat Dryness & Other Winter Skin Challenges
During this time, your skincare routine needs a little TLC. Here are some holistic ways to enhance your skin’s resilience against the seasonal changes:
1. Switch to a Richer Moisturizer
- Look for thicker, emollient-rich moisturizers to replenish lost moisture. Opt for products that contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.
- Make sure to apply your moisturizer immediately after you wash your face to lock in hydration.
2. Hydrate from Within
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Consider adding herbal teas that are soothing for the skin, such as chamomile or calendula.
- Consider adding a humidifier in your home to keep the indoor air moist and prevent further dehydration.
3. Use a Gentle Cleanser
- Avoid harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils. Opt for creamy, non-foaming cleansers or micellar water to cleanse without drying your skin out.
- Double cleansing at night is a great way to remove makeup and pollutants while keeping your skin balanced.
4. Exfoliate Gently
- As dead skin cells build up, it’s important to exfoliate to keep your complexion smooth. However, avoid harsh scrubs. Instead, opt for gentle, enzymatic exfoliants or mild chemical exfoliants like lactic acid.
- Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin type.
5. Add a Hydrating Serum
- Incorporate a hydrating serum into your skincare routine. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or squalane, which help to attract and hold moisture in the skin.
- Serums can be layered under your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.
6. Protect Your Skin from the Elements
- Don’t forget your SPF! Even in winter, the sun’s UV rays can damage the skin, especially when reflected off snow or ice.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF with at least 30, and apply it every morning, even on cloudy days.
7. Nourish from the Inside
- A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants can help strengthen your skin barrier and protect against environmental damage. Include foods like avocado, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens in your diet.
- Consider adding supplements such as vitamin D, which is vital during the winter months when sunlight exposure is limited.
8. Soothing Masks for Extra TLC
- Incorporate hydrating and calming masks into your routine once or twice a week. Look for masks with ingredients like honey, aloe vera, or oatmeal to soothe and moisturize the skin.
- Sheet masks are also a great option for a quick hydration boost.
Enhance Your Winter Skincare Routine with These Tips:
- Hydrating Mist: Keep a hydrating mist with you during the day to refresh your skin and add moisture when you’re feeling dry.
- Rich Oils for Extra Protection: Use facial oils like rosehip, jojoba, or argan oil at night to seal in moisture and strengthen your skin’s barrier.
- Lips & Hands: Don't forget your lips and hands. Use rich balms and moisturizers to protect them from cracking and dryness.
Winter Skincare
Here’s a simple routine anyone can use to keep their skin at its optimal health during these colder months. All are available for purchase on my website.
Morning Skincare Routine:
- Cleanser: Gentle Gel Cleanser
- Serum: Essential Serum
- Moisturizer: Ultra Hydro Gel
- Sunscreen: Moisturizing Protection Cream SPF 30
Evening Skincare Routine:
- Cleanser (Double Cleanse): Gentle Gel Cleanser + Mega Cream Cleanser
- Exfoliant (1-2x per week): Peptide Micro Scrub
- Serum: Protective Skin Serum
- Moisturizer: Vitamin E Cream
- Facial Oil (optional): Beauty Oil
Weekly Treatments:
- Hydrating Mask (1-2x per week): Rejuvenation Peptide Masque
- Lip Treatment: Hydrating Lip Balm
- Hands and Body: Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion
By making these simple adjustments to your routine, you can ensure that your skin remains healthy, hydrated, and glowing throughout the winter months. Remember that the transition from summer to winter can be tough on your skin, but with a little care and the right products, you can enjoy radiant, comfortable skin all season long.