There are two skin care actions to take no matter what the temperature is outside – moisturize and block UV rays. Let’s look at how to protect your skin year round. When it comes to caring for your skin, temperature matters. Ingredients in your skin care products matter too. Products containing shea butter can help protect the skin from UV sunlight and harsh temperatures.
Cold weather can turn silky skin into dry, red, rough skin. Heaters can cause dryness too. Skin care products containing aloe vera and jojoba oil will moisturize and hydrate the skin. Those containing caffeine can help reduce redness caused by inflammation. The best time to apply a moisturizer is immediately after bathing to lock in the water and oils. Water temperature should be warm, not hot. Long, hot showers will deplete rather than nourish the skin. Add a humidifier to keep inside air beneficial for your skin.
If you’re skin is looking dull in winter use products that contain lemon extract, mandarin essential oil and olive oil to brighten the skin. Wear gloves to protect your hands and nails. Snow reflects sunlight so be sure to use sunscreen with at least SPF15.
While mild weather during spring and autumn may not seem as threatening to the skin as hot or cold weather, the skin still needs a moisturizer and protection from the sun’s UV rays. Many people don’t think to protect their lips with a SPF15 or higher lip block or lipstick. Ears are identified as being the third most frequent location for skin cancer. Other vulnerable and often neglected, not protected spots are the scalp, eyelids and feet.
Hot temperatures in summer require moisturizing and protecting the skin as well. Sweat and skin oils can clog pores. Products containing sugar cane extract can keep pores open and help eliminate blemishes.
If your skin burns, DNA in your skin cells has been damaged. Applying SPF 15 sunscreen will defend your skin from sun damage for approximately two hours. After that, sunscreen should be reapplied. If you are swimming or sweating a lot, apply more often. Wearing loose, natural-fiber clothing and a hat during summer will protect your skin as well.
No matter what the temperature is outside remember to moisturize and protect your skin year round.