Staying Hot in the Winter Chill

Today was the first really cold day of the season, and – of course – it was also a day I had to wake up pre-dawn for a series of early morning meetings.

So, there I was, bundled up, clutching my coffee for dear-warmth, when I realized, the time had come. Winter has arrived, and it’s time to get ready – and do our best to stay beautiful.

Image: Dr. Howard Sobel

According to Dr. Howard Sobel, New York City dermatologist and dermatologic cosmetic surgeon, there are indeed really specific ways to care for our skin as the weather gets colder.

During the colder months, everybody’s skin becomes less oily and drier from both indoor and outdoor elements, include the wind, indoor heat, etc.

“I tell all my clients – no matter skin type – to swap their cleanser for a milder and less drying product. Cooler showers do work – so turn the heat down! Take shorter showers too. And be sure to apply a body-specific moisturizer shortly after on damp skin for maximum effect,” Sobel says.

Sunscreen is critical

“Most people stop using sunscreens once the weather turns colder, but the facts are that aging of the skin results from sun damage that occurs during both summer and winter months. Save time in the morning and sleep an extra 15 minutes by using a dual-purpose moisturizer that has SPF in it – at least 30 SPF,” recommends Sobel. This way, you keep your skin hydrated while protecting against cumulative environmental damage that comes from sun exposure.

Many people tend to overlook the hands during the colder months, despite the fact they are the first on our body to get excessively dry.

Remember to moisturize your hands daily, and if you’re worried about dry, worn-out or older looking hands, speak to your dermatologist about skin rejuvenating hand treatments. “I think dermal fillers can work great as well as laser treatments to remove unattractive sun spots,” says Dr. Sobel.

Autumn is a great time to have a purifying facial or a mild peel to remove your dead skin cells that have accumulated over the summer months.

“In my practice, I see an increase during this time of patients requesting mild to medium peels to refresh their skin for the new season. Since many women like to go lighter during the colder months, they want their complexion to be as smooth and refined as possible,” Says Dr. Sobel.

“Many of my patients who come to see me around this time have pigment changes in their skin from summer. I like to use the Aurora Laser, which uses a very gentle light and energy to remove brown spots from sun damage, blotchiness and to improve skin tone and texture. This treatment is also great to get your in skin in glowing shape for the holidays,” he goes on.

So, is your skin ready for winter, and are you already seeing the effects of the chill? I’m going to follow this advice, starting now!