8 Foolproof Ways to Keep Your Skin Glowing this Winter

I'm not sure what it's like where you live, but Winter is certainly in full swing here on the east coast....and personally I am not a fan. My fingers (nails/cuticles) and lips are usually the first things to fall victim to the harsh temperatures, dry air and whipping winds. So I did a little digging to find out what I can do keep my skin healthy in the next couple of months. Here's what I learned...

1. Humidity is your friend. Who knew that sweating it out in my favorite cycling class was doing wonders for my skin as well as my bum?! The high humidity actually helps to rehydrate the skin! If spinning and hot yoga isn't your thing, no worries - you can still add a little moisture into the air by purchasing a humidifier for your bedroom. 

2. Long hot showers or baths are a no-no. Keep showers under 10 minutes and use warm water. "Hot water might feel good on a cold morning, but it strips skin of its natural oils, leaving it dehydrated and itchy," says David Bank, Dermatologist MD. (more here)

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3. Balm it up! If you're the outdoorsy type and need to be outside in the biting cold for activities and sports, applying a balm versus lotion will provide more protection against the cold air. "A moisturizer gets readily absorbed, but an ointment leaves an extra layer of protection." explains Dr. Frank, MD Dermatologist. (more here)

4. Wash your hair every 2 or 3 days. Washing your hair daily depletes natural oils, plus you're more likely to use hair dryers and other styling tools which will only dry out your hair even further. For a once a week treatment, coat dry hair with a deep conditioner and leave-in as long as an hour. Then shampoo with a moisturizing formula and follow with a leave-in conditioner. 

5. Drink lots of water. I can't offer scientific proof, but I personally believe in moisturizing from within. I notice a significant difference in my skin when I'm guzzling water down like it's my job.

6. Moisturize, moisturize and...moisturize! Replace your lighter Summer moisturizers with richer and thicker alternatives such as body butters, balms and salves. Be sure to apply moisturizer immediately post-shower or bath to effectively lock-in moisture. Don't forget to reapply throughout the day, especially after washing your hands. Slathering on another layer before bed is an additional way to get the most out of products. For brittle nails, apply a little cuticle cream or olive oil to your nails and around your cuticles.

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7. Exfoliate. Sloughing off dead skin cells will help your moisturizer work its magic (faster). 

8. From top to bottom. Make sure to give your feet some love! Use a pumice stone in the shower once a week to scrub calluses and heels. Moisturize feet with thick creams - wearing socks overnight can help with cream absorption! 

Additional reading: greatist.com, webmd.com