Tips for Better Skin Throughout the Year
By Philip Rebentisch
It’s that time of year (again) when millions of people vow to make lifestyle changes in the year ahead. According to various polls, improving mental health, more exercise, losing weight, and trying new things top the New Year’s resolution list. That’s why gyms and health clubs see an attendance spike from January through March, and then tapers off (again) as the commitment wanes. Thankfully, we have a New Year’s resolution suggestion that doesn’t require a dramatic lifestyle or schedule change; renew your skin for the new year.
Taking good care of your skin has many benefits beyond your mirror’s approval. It can lead to more confidence in facing the world, and, a sense of gratitude for all the compliments you’re sure to receive. As our body’s largest organ, good skincare habits also benefit your overall health. To help manifest your resolution, we’re happy to provide a few simple tips for better skin throughout the year. So please, resolve to keep reading!
WINTER
During the winter months, people typically spend more time indoors with furnaces blowing hot, dry air day and night. This leads to overly dry skin, especially in northern climates. If venturing outside to ski, snowboard, build a snowman, or even take a walk, cold and windy conditions can lead to dry, wind-whipped, and irritated skin. Winter can be the toughest skincare season, and here are a few crucial survival tips.
Our Winter Tips:
- Hydration is Key: Use a rich, moisturizing, and nutritive cream to keep your skin hydrated.
- Gentle Cleansing: Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of essential oils.
- Sunscreen: Don't forget a mineral-based sunscreen, even in winter. UV rays can still damage your skin, especially if there's snow on the ground that reflects sunlight. Remember, UV rays are more intense at high altitudes, so apply (and reapply) sunscreen while skiing or snowboarding.
- Exfoliation: Use a mild exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, but don't overdo it, as winter skin is more sensitive. An exfoliator that moisturizes and tones the skin is highly recommended.
- Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized with a good-quality lip balm.
- Winter Wardrobe: We suggest wearing layered, warm, and protective clothing including a hat, gloves, a scarf, and sunglasses. Be extra careful in severe conditions as frostbite can permanently damage skin tissue.
SPRING
Spring is the literal and metaphorical time of renewal. After winter’s drudgery, experiencing the warmer weather and seeing nature reawaken can motivate and renew one’s outlook on life. Many of us will spend more time out in the world again, which means changing our skincare routine. If you enjoy activities such as hiking and camping, use extra care regarding increased sun exposure, poisonous plants, and insect bites.
Our Spring Tips:
- Renew & Regenerate: It’s time to rid yourself of dead skin cells, wrinkles, and fine lines. Consider using a cell turnover ampoule with hydrating hyaluronic acid to support natural collagen production and boost moisture.
- Sunscreen: Continue using sunscreen consistently, especially on the more exposed parts of your body after storing your winter wardrobe in the closet.
- Hydrating Masks: Consider using a night-time hydrating mask to rejuvenate your skin after winter’s dry conditions.
- Antioxidant-rich Diet: Include colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet to provide your skin with essential nutrients for beauty from the inside out.
SUMMER
Summer is the perfect season for travel, outdoor parties, concerts, and theme parks, to name a few. It all means prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and the environment, and it’s critical to protect your skin. If you’re lucky enough to spend time at the beach, remember that sand is an abrasive exfoliant, so rinse well afterward. If you spend time in the ocean or a pool, saltwater and chlorine can dry your skin. Many dermatologists recommend applying a moisturizer after your beach day or other fun in the sun.
Our Summer Tips:
- Frequent Sunscreen: Most experts advise reapplying sunscreen [LINK] every two hours with an SPF of 30 or higher, especially if you’re swimming. Be sure to remove the sunscreen as part of your evening routine as it may clog pores overnight.
- Tone Your Skin: You may want to consider a pigmentation corrector to tone and even your skin and remove dark spots from sun damage.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. If you took on too much sun, consider using a product that contains Aloe Vera, a natural humectant that seals in moisture.
- Humidity: If you live in a humid climate, you may need to cleanse and exfoliate more often. This can help prevent clogged pores and the buildup of dead skin cells.
- Summer Chic: Break out the coverups, hats, and sunglasses to avoid UV damage at the beach.
Fall
The change of seasons heading into fall means cooler and drier weather. Just like the changing leaves, your skin can become dry and brittle. So once again, it’s important to keep your skin moist and supple. Fall weather typically necessitates a jacket, pants, or fleece leggings, so daily full-body sunscreen application is less of a chore. If you live in or travel to an area with brilliant fall foliage, take in the sheer splendor of it all while caring for your exposed face and hands.
Our Fall Tips:
- Firmer Skin: Cooler and drier weather can lead to drier skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. That’s why a moisturizing firming cream is so important for your fall skincare routine. It’s a good preventative measure to firm and hydrate your skin before it starts to sag.
- Protective Toners: Consider including a rebalancing toner with moisturizers to protect your skin from drier weather and environmental damage. The goal is to rid the skin of oils, residue, and dead skin cells for a healthier appearance.
- Anti-Aging: We’re coming to the end of your resolution to renew your skin, and you may want to consider an advanced, anti-aging product. Support your skin’s natural healing process by boosting cellular turnover and protecting against the breakdown of collagen.
- Back to Work: Fall is full-on “back to work” mode and you want to look your best in the office or on the webcam. Repair dark circles and under-eye puffiness with an effective night-time eye cream. Looking rested and energized is sometimes better than coffee!
Final Thoughts
Taking good care of your skin throughout the year is a rejuvenating resolution that’s easy to uphold. Once you create a skincare routine with natural, science-based, and effective products, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to maintain. Making adjustments with the change of seasons is a good plan, and it’s something your skin will appreciate. So go ahead and commit to renewing your skin for the new year. It’s a self-care promise that’s worth keeping.
Rejuran USA wishes you a happy and prosperous New Year!
