SOS Skin: Remedies for Dry, Sensitive Winter Skin

Apply moisturizer immediately after washing. 

 

Each time you wash your face, body, or hands, you strip the skin of its natural moisture. Therefore, it is crucial to moisturize immediately after washing in the winter, since these oils are what lock in moisture. 

 

As a reminder, we recommend keeping your favorite hand moisturizer next to your sinks and keeping a body moisturizer near your eyesight for when you exit the shower. And speaking of showers: as tempting as it is, it is recommended to lower the shower heat and avoid scalding baths as these also strip the skin of its moisture. 

 

Some of our favorite moisturizers include:

    

NELLY DE VUYST DRY SKIN CREAM - $103.60

 

BIOPHORA SENSITIVE DRY KIT - $348

 

VALMONT BODY 24 HOUR - $245

 

Prioritize ointments and creams as opposed to lotions. 

 

Different ratios of water and oil give these three products different textures, which have an effect on the product’s intended purpose.

  

• Lotions tend to be lighter, as they contain much more water than oil. You can even find oil-free lotions, which might be ideal for combination, oily, or acne-prone skin––but are not to be recommended during the colder months. 
• Creams are usually 50-50, meaning they are easily absorbed and stay on your skin’s surface to help protect against moisture loss. which makes them ideal for treating dry skin, rashes, or skin lesions.
• Ointments––like the ZO Skin Health Soothing Ointment––contain the most oil, so stay on top of your skin rather than being absorbed right away. This offers the best protection against moisture loss and the harshness of winter elements, like cold and dry air.

 

Overnight treatments, like the IMAGE SKIN CARE Vital C Hydrating Overnight Masque, are also a great option, as they can penetrate the skin over multiple hours. And you can go to bed looking like a glazed donut––Hailey Bieber would be proud!

  

Use gentle, fragrance-free (professional!) products.

 

If your skin (whether it be on your face or on your body) is especially sensitive or irritated due to the dry winter air, you may want to consider simplifying your skincare routine. Irritated skin is more sensitive to ingredients like alcohols and fragrances, which can worsen the skin’s condition. 

  

Keep in mind that dry, irritated skin suffers from a damaged skin barrier, and a damaged barrier doesn’t respond well to all types of products. Professional-grade products that are formulated for sensitive skin are your best bet––and if you’re not sure where to start, you can always book your virtual consultation with one of our medical aestheticians who will get you on the right path!

  

Until next time,

 

The BSE Team