The frigid, stale temperatures during this time of year wreak havoc on our skin regardless of skin type. Extremely dry and chapped skin can be difficult to manage for six months out of the year. The key is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and there are many ways you can do it. I’m not going to suggest you drink water because I’m sure you’re tired of hearing that (although you should be drinking tons of it!). Instead, I want to share with you my go-to products to keep my dry, eczema-prone skin looking healthy and glowy in 20℉ weather and year-round.
1. Pond’s Dry Skin Cream
Pond’s is one of the best moisturizers on the market. For over 150 years, this moisturizer has been a staple on the vanity table of millions of women around the world. Pond’s is my grandmother’s holy grail and her skin is beautiful. I love this cream because it’s inexpensive and the consistency is perfect: it’s not too thick, it sinks into the skin, and a little goes a long way.
One jar will last you a couple of months. Pond’s gives your skin a natural, healthy glow, which I look for in a moisturizer because I love dewy-looking skin. I don’t see myself switching to a different moisturizer any time soon. Tip: for an extra boost of hydration, mix in a few drops of your favorite facial oil into your moisturizer (thank me later).
2. Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen
Rain or shine, cold or warm, sunscreen is not optional. If you aren’t doing so already, including sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is a must. Your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays even on cloudy days and yes, even if you spend a lot of time indoors. Too much sun exposure without protection can age skin, and cause permanent damage. Sun Bum does not leave a white cast (yes!) and can be mixed into your moisturizer or foundation.
3. Pixi Vitamin C Serum
Listen: serums are your best friends. Vitamin C is your best friend too because you do not get enough of it during the cold months. Your skin will love vitamin C as it boosts collagen production, and its antioxidant properties protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Serums also create a lovely, smooth base before your moisturizer.
4. Glossier Super Pure Serum
Glossier’s blend of Niacinamide and Zinc serum looks and feels like water; think of it as a glass of fresh water for the skin. Super Pure is lightweight and instantly absorbed into the skin. Niacinamide and Zinc are beneficial to sensitive skin. If you suffer from an occasional blemish but acne products are too strong and irritant, then this is the product you’ve been looking for. It unclogs congested pores in the gentlest manner while improving skin’s texture.
5. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Finally, no skincare routine is complete without an exfoliator. The best way to exfoliate so is with a chemical exfoliant. Scrubs do more harm than good so toss them out!
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid is both a toner and an exfoliant. What this golden liquid will do for you is buff away dead skin and impurities so that the new, radiant layer beneath can come through. One thing to consider when using acids on sensitive skin is to test one patch of skin first, use it sparingly, and WEAR SUNSCREEN.
Skincare is not one size fits all, and it takes time to find products that make your skin happy. Take the time to get to know your skin and don’t be afraid to try new products!