Your Midwinter Skin Care Survival Guide!

Don't Let Winter Win ...

 

 

It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year. Well, time flies, and now it's time to look ahead to the rest of the winter.

February is the coldest month of the year, which is bad news for your skin. (1)

And March isn't much better. But don't worry. There are steps you can take right now that will protect your skin as the thermostat freezes and the snow begins to fall.

So let's dive into this seasonal blog, where we review your MIDWINTER SKIN CARE SURVIVAL GUIDE for smoother and healthier skin!

 

 

Start My Winter Reset

 

February may not have the shortest days of the year (we can thank December for that), but it does have the coldest weather.

This is because despite December having the lowest angle from the sun, it takes a couple of months for the temperatures to cool long enough for you to feel the extreme cold in February.

This is called cumulative cooling, and puts February right at the heart of the cold. (2)

 

And it's only getting worse. In fact, we recently had the coldest February we've had in over thirty years. And things may not be getting better anytime soon. (3)

 

FUN FACT: January and February were the last months added to the calendar because of the cold! March might not be much better. Don't just get by. Thrive this winter by preparing and pampering your skin with natural beauty and oral products. (4)

 

Knowing how cold winter is can be the difference between dry and cracking skin, and skin that's nourished, soft, and supple. This is because you can then control your exposure.

In this cold, it's best to limit the time you spend outdoors. This is the only way to not only prevent dryness, frostbite, and skin problems, but also the sun, which still shines dangerously in winter, and can lead to skin cancer and early aging. (5)

And if you do go outside, it's important that you wear several layers, and especially cover up the thinner layers of skin on your body - such as your neck, hands, and face. This will help keep your moisture in, and the irritation out. (6)

 

 

Hydrate Now

 

 

Aside from the temperature drop in February, the real reason this month is so dangerous to your skin is because of the dryness in the air.

Dryness literally draws the moisture out of your skin, leaving your outermost skin layers depleted and dry. This dryness can have serious complications for your physical health. (7)

 

This is because the cellular structure of your skin can be easily compromised by cold weather, ironically breaking apart and leaving you with a burning sensation as a result of dryness and irritation. (8)

 

FUN FACT: Feeling cold? Avoid hot showers. This will protect your natural oils from stripping and leaving you even less protected! (9)

 

But if you suffer from dry skin, don't worry. You're not alone. Dry skin actually has a medical name - xerosis, or xeroderma - and IS preventable. (10)

To help control dry skin, do whatever you can to boost your hydration. This means drinking a lot of water and avoiding dehydrating drinks like caffeinated coffee and tea. (11)

And to ensure the hydration goes exactly where it's supposed to, it's also best to apply a pure moisturizer before AND after washing your hands and bathing, as this not only provides your skin with moisture, but locks it in too! (12)

 

 

Time For An Upgrade

 

Some of the best parts of winter are indoor heating and fireplaces. But unfortunately, these things we love so much about winter are hurting us too.

This is because indoor heating pulls the moisture out of your skin, leaving you dry and vulnerable to the ridiculously cold weather outside. (13)

 

I know what you must be thinking: "You've gotta be kidding me. So what am I supposed to do, freeze?"

The answer is no. In fact, what you wash with can eliminate the drawbacks of indoor heating. One way to do this is by using hyaluronic acid, which provides hydration and deep-layered moisture. (14)

 

FUN FACT: After showering, pat yourself dry. This prevents irritation from damaging your skin when it's vulnerable and sensitive. (15)

 

If you're older, it's especially important that you protect your skin. This is because older skin already contains less oil, and can be more easily broken down in the cold. (16)

Once broken down, your skin is then susceptible to other skin problems, such as drying, cracking, and unfortunately, infection. Infections can then lead to even more short and long term health problems. (17)

And if you suffer from inflammation when it's not February, or have a history of rosacea or eczema flareups, the extra cold in winter may cause your symptoms to worsen. (18)

 

 

Save My Hair Before Spring

 

 

It's important to look after your skin in the winter, but it's just as important to look after your hair.

This is because the cold temperatures cause your hair to dry out, and for your hair to look dull and weak. This leads to static, matted hair, dandruff, and split ends. (19)

 

Hair loss is also common in winter, as the cold air can lead to a dry scalp. And considering dry scalp equates to brittle hair that can break with friction, this can be extra dangerous to your skin and hair. (20)

 

FUN FACT: The proportion of hair follicles in the anagen phase of hair growth peaks in March. This means boosting your hair with natural hair products you can trust. (21)

 

In addition to the problems cold air can cause on your hair, it also contributes to other psychological problems that can leave you aching and reeling.

The cold air causes increased scratching and itching due to dryness, which can lead to further psychological problems and mental duress. (22)

Cold air also causes the electrons in your hair to build and idle, leaving your hair frizzing out and standing on edge. This can cause self-consciousness and major problems socially and mentally (not to mention with your go-to style!) (23)

 

 

Get Your Glow Back

 

 

Though there are many things you can do to combat the nasty effects of the cold and dry air on your skin, one of the best things you can do is to simply know your self.

By knowing your self, you'll have a better understanding of what triggers your body and skin. For example, if a humidifier has a history of helping you, it may be a good idea to use one to fight the humidity in the air, while not adding unwanted oil to your skin. (24)

 

That brings us to understanding your skin, and your tendency toward acne, which worsens in February as your body compensates for the dry air. This can leading to increased oil production and a potential buildup of bacteria. (25)

 

FUN FACT: On average, adults need about a half-gallon of water each day to stay hydrated. Give your body what it needs by moisturizing with pure and natural hydrating products! (26)

 

February is also a great time for taking what you already know about your skin, and building off of it.

For example, using natural beauty products meant to balance your skin is essential in the cold months, where your skin can fluctuate from oily to dry at a moment's notice. (27)

It's also important to use essential oils. Giving yourself an essential oil massage will not only relax you, but give your skin the boost of nutrients it needs to seal your moisture into your skin more efficiently. (28)

 

Time To Get Glowing

To help you protect, repair, and restore from head to toe, we’ve curated our must-have midwinter survival routines featuring our:

 

Intimate Odor Control & Freshness System: Gentle system helps cleanse, refresh, and maintain confidence, even during the driest months.

Natural Hair Growth & Moisture System: Moisture-rich system helps hydrate, strengthen, and support healthier-looking hair all winter long.

 

Natural Facial Care System: Helps restore hydration, improve texture, and bring your glow back when your skin needs it most.

 

Underarm Odor Control & Brightening System: Helps detox, balance, and keep you feeling fresh through the season.

 

Oral Care Trio: Support healthy gums, fresh breath, and a confident smile with a complete seasonal reset.

 

Beard Care & Skin Health System: Deeply nourishes both hair and skin to keep everything soft, healthy, and comfortable.

 

Original 4D Hyaluronic Acid Collection: This powerhouse hydration collection works at multiple layers to replenish moisture, restore bounce, and protect your glow from the harsh elements.

 

Naturally Crafted Soaps: Cleanse deeply while protecting your skin’s hydration, keeping it soft, smooth, and healthy all season long.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Disclaimer: Contact a doctor/health care professional if you have any questions about you or your kid's/baby's health. Contact a doctor/health care professional before product use. Don't ignore medical guidance or delay getting help because of content on this site. The content on this site is not meant to replace or as a substitute for any advice, treatment, or diagnosis from a medical health professional. The content on this site is not medical advice or guidance. Speak to a health care professional before you or your kid/baby begin any kind of medical/skin care/oral care routine. We are not fully guaranteeing prevention or remedying of any infections, oral problems, skin problems, breathing problems, or diseases with the content on this site or with our products. Speak to a health care professional when mixing skin care/oral care products. Speak to a health care professional before essential oil use. Do not ingest or inhale any product without medical/professional advice. Always read labels carefully. 

**Updated: This blog has been edited from a previous version.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

1. https://www.almanac.com/why-february-cold

2. https://www.theweatherprediction.com/habyhints3/980/

3. https://www.noaa.gov/news/us-had-its-coldest-february-in-more-than-30-years

4. https://www.almanac.com/content/month-february-holidays-fun-facts-folklore

5. https://www.nyp.org/patients-and-visitors/advances-consumers/issues/10-tips-for-protecting-your-skin-in-the-cold-weather

6. https://www.nwphysicians.com/simple-solutions-combat-winter-skin-sensitivity/

7. https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2017/february/dry-skin

8. https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/what-to-do-about-dry-skin-in-winter

9. https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/winter-seriously-dries-out-your-skin-cold-air-and-heating-systems-are-to-blame/2020/01/31/066329d6-41e6-11ea-aa6a-083d01b3ed18_story.html

10. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Effects-of-Dry-Skin.aspx

11. https://www.vogue.com/article/how-to-get-rid-of-dry-skin-winter-eye-cream-face-serum-mask-scrub

12. https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/skin-care-in-the-dry-winter-air

13. https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/skin-hair-and-nails/8-ways-to-protect-your-skin-during-a-harsh-winter

14. https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-and-beauty/top-tips-for-healthy-winter-skin.aspx

15. https://www.michderm.com/blog/winter-skin-care-how-to-protect-yourself-in-cold-weather

16. ucihealth.org/blog/2017/12/cold-weather-skin-care

17. https://www.agingcare.com/articles/protecting-skin-from-winter-damage-154988.htm

18. https://theskinnerd.com/blogs/the-skin-nerd-blog/why-your-skin-looks-worse-in-winter

19. https://www.charismadetroit.com/the-winter-effect-on-your-hair/

20. https://www.wave3.com/2019/11/15/behind-forecast-does-cold-weather-affect-hair-growth/

21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2003996/

22. https://www.everydayhealth.com/beauty-pictures/repair-winter-damaged-hair.aspx

23. https://www.bebeautiful.in/articles/4-ways-to-deal-with-hair-loss-in-the-winter

24. https://aadermatology.com/how-winter-weather-affects-your-skin/

25. https://mylocalstudy.com/2018/12/12/effects-of-winter-managing-your-skin/

26. https://www.luxhairbar.com/winter-hair-care-tips-tricks-and-remedies

27. https://eminenceorganics.com/ca/blog/2021/09/22/skin-care-tips-weather-change-skin-problems

28. https://www.whittierhospital.com/WHMC-Blog/2017/January/Skin-Hydration-in-Winter.aspx