Is Your Skin Ready

I love the fall and winter seasons. This is my favorite time of year, the air is cool and crisp, the leaves change colors, and of course the holidays. As the seasons change, you pull out your winter wear with your favorite boots, hats, and gloves. But did you remember to switch out your skincare routine? During the summer we are using spfs, light weight creams and lotions, and cosmetics that are light and breathable. The winter season can be very damaging to the skin. In winter months your skin needs two types of moisturizers or an all-in one. Your skin needs a moisturizer that acts as a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss and also a moisturizer that keeps your cells hydrated. We never really think about switching up our routine because often times we feel the sun is more damaging. However, that is far from the truth. The brittle cold can be just as damaging if not more than the sun. The cold temperature and low humidity results in dry air leaving your skin without moisture. Since the temperatures are so cold, most people have their heat on which can take even more moisture out of your skin. Those with eczema or psoriasis may notice their symptoms are exacerbated by the cold weather. These tips and tricks on how to get your skin ready for the cold can help you avoid severe effects from the cold weather:

Only exfoliate once per week. When choosing an exfoliant be sure that it has moisturizing properties. Choose a moisturizer that has a little weight to it. This means that is should have butters and oils and less water. When reading your labels if water is listed within the first 4 words, this is a water-based product and should be avoided. After your bath or shower, pat your skin dry leaving behind a little moisture. Apply your butter/oil-based moisturizer to lock in that moisture. Do the scratch test. Taking your finder nails, run them over your skin. If you can hear the scratching then your skin is NOT moisturized and hydrated properly. Use natural soaps. Natural soaps are made using oils and butters. They are usually free from toxic and harmful ingredients and can easily start the moisturizing process while bathing. Start taking warm showers. I know, there is nothing like a hot shower or bath, but this strips the skin of its natural oils causing more dryness. Do not lick your lips. I know we have all seen the “ring” around the lips that licking can cause. The ring appears after the skin has become so dry and cracked it has formed a crust over the irritated area. To avoid licking your lips use a lip balm, even underneath your favorite lip stick for extra protection.

Implementing these changes now will prepare you for the cold winter months ahead. Remember, winter is coming!

By: Tamara P. Brown Contributing Writer

www.jakessentials.com www.jaksprivatelabels.com

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