How to Enjoy Winter Sports and Help Your Skin
Winter is a beautiful time of year, and it’s full of fun sports like skiing and snowboarding. But how can you fully enjoy being outside to participate in them without destroying your skin? Here are a few winter skincare tips that can help you enjoy winter sports to the fullest.
How to Care for Your Skin in Winter
Change Your Moisturizer
It might seem strange to update your moisturizer from season to season, but the truth is that this practice is incredibly common. In fact, most dermatologists actually recommend that you change up your skincare routine as the seasons change. Doing so can help you make sure that your skin is getting the moisture and nourishment it needs as the weather gets colder. This is especially important for people living with eczema. Without a heavier moisturizer or eczema cream, it’s possible that the cold, dry weather outside will exacerbate the condition. When in doubt, ask your dermatologist what type of moisturizer would be best to help you avoid dry skin rashes during the winter months.
Cover Your Face When Possible
Winter sports typically involve spending a lot of time outside in the elements, which means your face is going to be exposed to dry, cold air and wet snow for what could end up being hours at a time. If you want to protect your skin and still enjoy winter sports, consider investing in adequate face coverings so you can go outside and keep the delicate skin on your face protected. If all you have is a scarf, that’s fine. But ultimately, a mask or balaclava and sunglasses or goggles is going to be the best option for protecting your skin and allowing you to enjoy outdoor sports during the winter months.
Wear Sunscreen
You might not like it, but sunscreen is a necessary part of protecting your skin, especially during the winter. Snow is excellent at reflecting sunlight, which means you’re still at risk for sun damaged skin even when it’s the middle of winter. When you apply sunscreen during the winter, make sure you apply it correctly. That means applying at least 15 minutes before you go outside and applying multiple layers of sunscreen. In addition, it’s important that you reapply sunscreen every few hours. So when you come in for a lunch break after a morning of skiing, it’s a good idea to apply some more sunscreen then.
Use a Humidifier
Caring for your skin so you can enjoy winter sports takes place inside just as much as it does outside. When you’re not shredding on the slopes, it’s a good idea to spend some time with a humidifier to get some moisture back in the air. With more moisture available, your skin will have an easier time retaining its own moisture. In combination with your new moisturizing cream, this should provide ample humidity for your skin after a long day of being outside in the cold.
Winter can be incredibly tough on your skin, which means it’s important to have a protective skincare routine in place. If you have questions about winter skin care, don’t hesitate to set up a consultation with our team at North Pacific Dermatology today.