Wellness at Your Fingertips: Soothing Winter Skin

Hello Friends,

I hope you are doing well. Winter is here—and for many, that means dry and flakey skin. This is a great time to think about your skin routine—it is an investment that will pay off now and for the rest of the year. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Keep moisture in your air: Consider using a humidifier or facial spray to keep your skin moist. When air is dry, water evaporates faster off the surface of your skin.
2. Use gentler facial products and cleansers: Consider using a cream cleanser that does not create too much lather two times a day to prevent over-drying and stripping away moisture.
3. Avoid long hot showers and baths: Remember that water does not moisturize your skin and long showers can cause the skin to shed its natural oils. To combat this, consider rubbing 6 drops of face oil into damp skin and let it absorb. When you dry your face, only press and pat, do not rub.
4. Upgrade your moisturizer and use it often: Look for products with ceramide and hyaluronic acid, which will help protect your skin barrier and hydrate your skin.
5. Exfoliate less (or not at all): Over-exfoliating can impair the skin’s barrier function and lead to increased surface dryness.
6. Wear sunscreen: Choose one that doubles as a moisturizer during colder months.
7. Drink 1-2 extra glasses of water per day.
8. Be careful with retinol (or vitamin A) products, as they can make your skin drier: A good tip is to apply a layer of aloe vera first before applying your topical medications or retinol.

This recipe is for a hydrating winter mask. It uses ingredients from your home—and it really works!

Mix together: 1 tbsp chickpea flour

• 1 tbsp yogurt
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp manuka honey (have a little water on the side at room temp)

Once you have a semi-thick consistency, smooth the mask all over your face and neck (this is great for the body too!) and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Here Are More DIY Skincare Tips To Try This Winter 

Please be safe—COVID-19 cases are increasing, and remember to follow the 3 Ws: 

• Wear your mask 
• Wash your hands 
• Watch your distance 

I look forward to seeing you soon! 

Dr. A