9 Tips for Healthy, Dewey Skin in a Dry Climate
Dry climates can be tough on the complexion and lead to some serious dryness year round, but especially in the warmer months. Not only that, but dry climates can exaggerate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as well as rough skin texture. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your skin and combat that dryness.
Stay Hydrated
Rule #1, when you are lacking water within your body, the likelihood of your aging signs are much higher. When you are not drinking enough H2O your body is pulling that extra moisture from your skin; think of your skin as a plant, not enough water means wilting leaves and flowers. To know your body’s optimal hydration is a simple calculation; divide your weight in half and intake that number in ounces daily (ex. 150lbs/2 = 75oz/day). Another option to help with signs of aging skin is using a humidifier to put a little moisture back into the air. Your skin will thank you, looking more supple and full.
Use a Gentle Cleanser
Be sure to use a gentle cleanser to remove the grime and dead skin cells from your face. Try a low pH cleanser to keep your skin balanced and hydrated. Cleansers with a high pH can actually dry out your skin even more.
Get a Boost with a Serum
Boost the moisture in your skin with an antioxidant or hyaluronic acid serum. Be sure to apply it to your face while your skin is still damp for the ultimate lock in of moisture.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
Get a great moisturizer that will replenish your skin’s moisture. However, avoid humectant-only moisturizers. These moisturizers pull moisture from the air to feed to your skin, but when there is little to no moisture in the air, these creams won’t do you much good. Instead, choose an oil-based moisturizer or one with essential fatty acids. Don’t forget to use a good cream or lotion on the rest of your body as well! Book an office visit with us so our experts can provide you with options best suited to your skin’s needs.
Use Sunscreen
Many dry climates are sunny year round and some are even high altitude, leaving you vulnerable to sunburns all year long. Be sure to use a sunscreen or a moisturizer with sunscreen to protect your skin. Invest in a good high-SPF sunscreen (30+). If you are outside enjoying the sun, be sure to reapply throughout the day. Don’t forget to apply to the tops of your ears, the back of your neck and other other places that are often missed in sunscreen application.
Exfoliate
The lack of humidity can leave skin looking dull and lead to the buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. Exfoliating your skin one to two times per week can reveal fresh, glowing skin underneath and help keep your pores from becoming clogged. Choose a light exfoliator that won’t irritate your skin and be sure to not over-exfoliate.
Mask It Up
Soak up some more moisture by using a face mask once a week. Choose a mask that delivers extra moisture and follow the directions on the back. When you take off the mask, pat in the extra serum to get the full benefit, then lock it in with your daily or nightly serums and moisturizer.
Don’t Forget Lip Balm!
Did you know the first sign of dehydration is chapped lips?! Seriously, avoid chapped and dry lips by drinking plenty of water and applying lip balm throughout the day, until no longer needed. In fact, if you use lip balm too often your lips no longer produce it’s natural layer of oil causing you to have to use it more often than needed.
Get a Facial!
Get a facial once a month. Skin cell turnover happens once about every 28 days and getting a facial regularly can help remove dead skin cells, replenish moisture, reduce pore sizes and even help with fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin will be healthy and glowing all year long!
Here at the US Wellness Collective, we know that no two people are alike so we offer fully customized facials to fit your skincare needs and goals. Our licensed estheticians will have you looking and feeling your best with our 30 or 60 minute facials. Book your appointment today!