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If you haven’t guessed from some of my previous posts, sensitive skin has been a lifelong struggle of mine.
Acne, rosacea, eczema, dermatitis…the list goes on when I think of my skin woes and the kind of battles I’ve had to fight. From the most potent, prescription strength cream, to the most gentle, over-the-counter wash you can find, I’ve tried them all by this point.
While some have definitely worked to help calm my irritated, sensitive skin, others have only inflamed my skin more, and have even caused additional skin issues (e.g., perioral dermatitis). Sounds fun, huh?
Unfortunately, these issues are often exacerbated in the colder winter months. Lower temperatures, less humidity, and central heating are all factors that can worsen irritated skin.
Over the years, I’ve found a few, key skin-savers that have helped to combat my skin issues, especially when my skin is at its worst in the wintertime.
If you’re battling sensitive skin, use these tips to hydrate and calm your skin, all while keeping your acne at bay this winter.
7 Tips to Take Care of Dry, Sensitive Skin in the Winter
1. Wash with a cream cleanser. A creamy wash that both removes dirt and excess oil while hydrating your skin is a winning combo in the colder months. Try Cerave’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser. This cleanser was recommended to me by my dermatologist because of its simple, yet effective formula. It’s non-drying, non-irritating, and leaves your skin feeling soft and nourished — a definite plus in the winter!
2. Use a balancing, non pore-clogging cream to hydrate. There are a lot of creams out there to choose from when it comes to hydrating your skin. Opt for one that contains hyaluronic acid, a proven ingredient that locks in your skin’s moisture. My go to is Cetaphil’s Daily Hydrating Lotion. It’s non pore-clogging, fragrance-free ingredients are perfect for my sensitive skin.
3. Drink as much water as you can. This tip is pretty straightforward, but certainly a necessary one in the winter. Strive to drink at least 7 glasses of water a day. Not only will this help to keep your skin hydrated, but it will help to remove toxins from your body.
4. Use an ice roller. Ice rolling has been a God-send for me with my acne prone skin. And in the winter months when everything seems to get dry and puffy, ice rolling can instantly de-puff your skin while calming any acne you may have. Plus, it’s easy to take with you on-the-go!
5. Quench your skin’s thirst with an ultra-hydrating mask. Need some extra moisture? Use a face mask to help restore your skin’s moisture this winter. My favorite is Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Treatment Mask. It’s formulated with Clary Sage, which helps to boost your skin’s hydration. Additionally, the ingredients are sensitive skin friendly, and made without parabens and phthalates.
6. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. While using sunscreen in the winter may seem unnecessary, a broad spectrum sunscreen with sensitive skin friendly ingredients can be your best weapon in reducing facial redness. My current favorite is EltaMD UV Clear. The secret ingredient in this sunscreen is niacinamide, which helps to control rosacea symptoms. Lightweight and silky, it glides on smooth underneath makeup, as well. Plus: it lasts forever. I’m three months in on my bottle, and have barely used up half!
7. Load up on fruits and veggies. One of the best ways to combat excess oil that can lead to acne breakouts is to simply clean up your diet. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables to fight acne from the inside-out this winter. Trust me, your skin will thank you for it!
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