This is a tough time of year for your skin, so check out our skincare tips during the winter months to keep your skin in tip top shape over the Christmas holidays.
Between the weather, the parties and late nights, and all the food and drink, many people find their skin looking the worse for wear by the time New Year rolls around. However, if you follow our skincare tips during the winter months, you should be able to get through to 2011 without too much damage!
Exercise: Exercise should be a permanent part of anyone's skin care regime. Exercise not only keeps the body fit and the extra pounds at bay, it also stimulates blood circulation in the skin, which is essential for healthy looking skin.
Water: If you want soft, supple skin, you have to keep it hydrated. Dehydration is common at this time of year - heated buildings have very dry air, and if you like to drink, alcohol will also dehydrate you. Be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and eat water rich foods, like fruits and vegetables.
Shower and moisturize: Rather than soaking in the bath - which can dehydrate your skin - start the day with a warm shower, then be sure to apply moisturizer as soon as you get out of shower.
Lip balm: Your lips can take a beating in winter, so don't forget the lip balm! Regular use of a lip balm or petroleum jelly will help prevent or get rid of chapped lips during cold weather.
Humidifier: One of the best ways to counteract the dry air of winter is to invest in a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which stops your skin from drying out - many people also find it helps them breathe easier too. While some humidifiers are expensive, you will also find lots of small, inexpensive humidifiers on the market.
Eat well: Eating a balanced diet is essential throughout the year. Rather than abusing yourself with a non-stop round of party foods, make sure you eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies, a good variety of nuts and fish, and as mentioned earlier, drink lots of water. Fresh foods are packed with the vitamins and minerals that your skin needs to stay healthy.
Sleep: Finally, be sure to get enough sleep. Sleep is not just for your brain - your skin needs plenty of rest time too. In fact, if you are regularly burning the candle at both ends, one if the first places to show it will be your skin. While individual needs vary, around seven hours sleep per night is recommended for most people.
