5 Tips to Keep Your Skin Healthy this Winter
The skin is the largest organ in the body and it is responsible for many functions that contribute to our health and well-being. It protects the body against physical and chemical aggressions, serves as a sensorial receptor, regulates body temperature, and supplies our cells with oxygen, water, and minerals. It also synthesizes Vitamin D from the sun, which is essential for healthy, strong bones and bone growth.
But winter months can leave it feeling dry and looking dull due to harsh weather conditions. Here are some tips to maintain the health of your skin all season long –
Protect your Lips
If you’re head gets cold, you make sure to put on a hat. The same thinking should be carried out when your lips get dry – put on some protection! The dryness of winter can leave your lips dry, chapped and may even cause stinging or burning. You’ll want to use a product that moistens your lips the natural way – with antioxidants. Applying antioxidant-emollient protection to your lips may also provide immune support, while keeping your lips moisturized.
Facial Moisturizer
Not only do moisturizers provide hydration for the skin, but they may also counteract the effects of aging. Moisturizers that contain Vitamin D and Collagen can enhance moisture, smoothness, texture and resilience. The addition of essential vitamins may also help revitalize skin affected by fine lines and wrinkles, and help to exfoliate your skin, removed dead skin cells.
Start using Collagen
Approximately 70% of skin and 36% of bone is made out of collagen. Collagen is used to form skin, hair, nails and bone. It naturally slows with age, starting at about age 25, at a rate of about 1.5% per year. A study in the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology reports that applying collagen cosmetics to the face will fill in lines, reduce wrinkles, and increases moisture content. Collagen is also available as a dietary supplement in powdered form, easily mixed into your favorite beverages.
Stop Using Products with Harmful Ingredients
Sixty percent of what you apply to your skin is absorbed into your body, according to Mariesette Zeyl, ND of InVite® Health. “It is likely that your daily go-to skin care routine contains products that are loaded with harmful toxins and chemicals that could be affecting your health negatively. You may not notice immediate reactions to these products, but overtime the toxic burden can slowly build up in our bodies.” Here are some ingredients that you should avoid. Remember: If you can’t pronounce it, then it probably isn’t good for you!
- Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) are synthetic antioxidants that are commonly used as preservatives in lipstick and moisturizers, among other cosmetics. BHA and BHT have been known to cause allergic reactions in the skin
- Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is mainly used in nail products as a solvent for dyes and to prevent nail polish from turning brittle.
- Parabens penetrate the skin easily and can also interfere with hormone function, as they mimic estrogen. In one study, parabens were detected in human breast cancer tissues.*
- Fragrances: Over 3,000 chemicals are used as fragrances that act as irritants and can trigger allergies and migraines. In addition, a survey found that amongst asthmatics, perfumes or colognes triggered asthma attacks in three out of four individuals.*
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a cleansing chemical that makes products bubble and foam, commonly found in shampoos, soaps, facial cleansers and body gel. There is evidence that sulfates can actually cause rashes and irritation.*
Start using Products with these Ingredients
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Aloe Vera
- Shea Butter
- Mango Butter
Here’s why these ingredients can benefit your skin and overall health, according to Mariesette Zeyl, ND of InVite Health!
What are some other methods you follow during the winter season to keep your skin as healthy as possible? Share your feedback in the comments!
