Introduction
The cold, dry air of winter can really take a toll on your skin. As the humidity drops, the moisture in your skin evaporates more quickly. This leads to dry, dull, flaky, and irritated skin all over your body. Using moisturizer is especially important during the winter months to replenish the moisture that is lost from your skin. Keeping your skin hydrated prevents common winter skin complaints like itchiness, redness, and chapped lips. Moisturized skin is smoother, softer, and looks more radiant.
Making sure you moisturize adequately in winter will keep your skin comfortable, healthy and prevent more serious skin conditions like eczema from developing or worsening. With the right moisturizer and moisturizing routine, you can protect your skin from harsh winter conditions.
Causes of Winter Skin Dryness
The winter season can cause a variety of issues for skin, with dryness being one of the most common. There are a few key reasons why skin tends to become drier in the colder months.
Cold, Dry Air
One of the biggest culprits for winter skin dryness is the cold, dry air that is prevalent during the winter. Cold air holds less moisture than warm air. Plus, indoor heating further strips moisture from the air. This dry air pulls moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, flaking, cracking, and irritation. Powerhouse Hydra Gel is a non-greasy fragrance-free Water based Moisturizer that contains ceramide, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, niacinamide and vitamin E. This is an excellent winter moisturizer.
Less Humidity
Along with cold air, winter weather also brings lower humidity levels. Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. When humidity levels drop, it creates more evaporation from the skin's surface, exacerbating dryness. The winter months tend to have humidity levels around 30% or less, while summertime humidity is often 50% or higher.
Cold Winds
Blasting cold winds in the winter can also sap moisture from the skin. Wind causes increased evaporation, which draws moisture to the surface of the skin where it quickly evaporates. This leads to a parched complexion.
Choosing the Right Moisturizer
During the winter months, the cold, dry air saps moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, and itchy. To combat winter dryness, it's important to choose a heavier, more emollient moisturizer.
Look for moisturizers that say "for dry skin" on the label. These will be thicker and more hydrating. Opt for a cream or ointment rather than a lotion, which has more water content.
Ceramide, Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Niacinamide and Vitamin E are all included in the non-greasy, fragrance-free Water Based Moisturizer from Powerhouse Hydra Gel. This is a great winter moisturizer.
Some key ingredients to look for include:
Ceramides - Ceramides are lipids (fats) that are naturally found in the skin. They help the skin retain moisture and maintain a protective barrier against irritants. Moisturizers with ceramides help reinforce this barrier when it becomes compromised in winter.
Hyaluronic acid - Hyaluronic acid has the ability to attract and bind 1000 times its weight in water. It acts as a super hydrator to plump the skin, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and provide a dewy glow. Hyaluronic acid moisturizers provide an extra boost of hydration.
Glycerin - Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin. It acts like a sponge for moisture. When glycerin levels are optimal, it keeps skin hydrated.
Dimethicone - Dimethicone is a silicone that seals hydration into the skin by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface. It helps prevent moisture loss.
Mineral oil - Mineral oil is an occlusive moisturizing agent that sits on top of the skin, slowing water loss. It's especially effective for very dry skin.
Choosing a moisturizer formulated specifically for winter will help nourish, replenish, and protect dry skin throughout the cold season.
No matter what type of skin you have or what time of year it is, there is a moisturizer that will suit your skin perfectly. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate moisturizer for your skin. Powerhouse Hydra gel moisturizer by Novaskins.
Moisturizing Tips
The key to combating winter dryness is keeping your skin moisturized throughout the day. Here are some tips for keeping your skin hydrated:
- Apply moisturizer right after showering or washing your face when your skin is still damp. The water will help seal in the moisture. Avoid rubbing your skin dry with a towel. Instead, gently pat your skin and then apply moisturizer.
- Run a humidifier in your home and office during the winter months. The humid air helps prevent moisture loss from your skin.
- Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week. This removes dead, dry skin cells and allows moisturizer to better penetrate your skin. Use a gentle scrub for your face and body.
- Use gentle cleansers in the winter. Avoid products with sulfates, alcohol, and fragrances which can strip your skin of oils. Look for creamy, hydrating cleansers labeled "gentle" or "hydrating".
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. Dehydration leads to dry skin. Aim for 8 glasses of water daily.
- Apply moisturizer multiple times throughout the day. Reapply after washing hands and as needed when skin feels dry and tight.
- Layer your products. Apply a serum or face oil underneath your regular moisturizer for an extra moisture boost.
- Use thicker, richer moisturizers in the winter months. Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, and oils.
- Protect your skin from cold, dry winds. Bundle up and use scarves, gloves, and hats to cover exposed skin when outdoors.
Following these tips will help you keep your skin hydrated, soft and healthy all winter long. Consistent moisturizer application is key.
Face Moisturizers
The skin on your face is often more sensitive and prone to dryness than other areas of the body. Using a moisturizer made specifically for the face is important during the winter.
You'll want to use separate moisturizers for both day and night. Daytime face moisturizers should contain SPF to protect against sun damage. Look for a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Some of the best daytime face moisturizers for winter include:
- The Powerhouse Hydra Gel Moisturizer - With ceramides, centella Asiatica, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E . Fragrance-free and non-greasy works for all skin types .
- CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM with SPF 30 - contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate while protecting skin with SPF. Lightweight, non-greasy formula works for all skin types.
- La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer with SPF 30 - made withglycerin and niacinamide to strengthen skin's moisture barrier and provide antioxidant protection along with SPF. Recommended for dry and sensitive skin.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer SPF 25 - oil-free gel cream formula absorbs quickly without leaving skin greasy. Contains hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and lock in moisture throughout the day.
For nighttime, use a moisturizer focused on hydration and repair without sunscreen. Some excellent night creams for winter include:
- CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream - contains ceramides, peptides and hyaluronic acid. Provides intense moisturization while you sleep. Fragrance and dye-free.
- Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream - formulated with amino-peptides and hyaluronic acid. Deeply hydrates and improves skin's texture overnight.
- The Powerhouse Hydra Gel is a non-greasy, fragrance-free that contains ceramides and centella asiatica. It also contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acids, as well as vitamin E works on all skin types.
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - provides long-lasting hydration thanks to colloidal oatmeal. Calms irritation and safe for sensitive skin.
Be sure to apply moisturizer to clean, dry skin morning and night for optimal results. Gently massage in an even layer all over your face, avoiding the eye area.
When to See a Dermatologist
While most winter dryness can be treated with good moisturizing routines, there may be times when it's best to see a dermatologist.
Seek medical advice if:
- Dryness and itching continue despite using moisturizers. Severe dry skin that causes cracking, bleeding or intense itching may require prescription treatments.
- Infections develop. Signs include pus, swelling, worsening redness, warmth and pain. Skin infections require antibiotics or other medications.
- Rashes appear. Eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions can flare with winter weather. A dermatologist can provide medications to treat the underlying condition.
Getting professional help for persistent or worsening dry skin can help prevent complications and find relief. Don't hesitate making an appointment if over-the-counter moisturizers aren't solving the problem. Addressing severe dryness right away leads to better outcomes.
No matter your skin type or season, there’s a moisturizer out there that’s perfect for you. That's why Novaskins created the ultimate skin moisturizer: Powerhouse Hydra Gel Moisturizer.