Keeping Your Skin Healthy in Cold Weather
This post was written by Heinen’s Director of Wellness, Heather Lentz.
Fighting the Elements
Dry skin is common in the winter months, especially for those of us here in the Midwest. When the humidity drops, our hydration level also drops. Cold winter air is dry, holding less moisture than warm air. This makes the water in your skin evaporate quickly resulting in dry, tight, and flaky skin. Actually your skin loses more than 25% of its ability to hold moisture in the winter. Windy weather can also beat up your skin making it look and feel dry and chapped.
The Solution: You can protect your skin by wearing protective clothing such as gloves and scarves to shield it from the harsh winter elements. Be sure to apply skin care that contains ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and even honey – which all act as humectants, grabbing onto moisture and holding on to it so your skin can absorb it. It’s also important to give special attention to your hands, feet, elbows, and knees with a rich moisturizing lotion.
Missing Essential Nutrients
Your skin cells are wrapped in a protective bubble of lipids (fats) that help keep them soft, plump, and flexible. If you do not eat enough fatty acids (Omega-3’s) in your diet, your body will not have enough building blocks to maintain this protective wrap.
The Solution: Eating foods that contain skin loving fats such as Omega-3 fatty acids. These guys can help replenish your skin’s natural fats and keep it looking smooth and supple. Omega-3-rich foods include oily fish (salmon, sardines, and mackerel). If you’re allergic to or can’t stand the taste of fish, try incorporating non-GMO tofu, walnuts, flaxseeds, avocado, or drizzle some olive oil over your salad. Quality Omega-3 supplements like Wholemega from New Chapter (available at Heinen’s) might be a great option for you too.
Drinking Enough Water
Finally, drink lots of water to stay hydrated! Often we only hear of staying hydrated during the hot summer months when we are sweating, but you can also easily become dehydrated in the winter.
By keeping these tips in mind, I promise you will emerge from the veil of winter into the dawn of Spring with glowing, happy skin!
Looking for Product Recommendations? Stop by your local Heinen’s! One of our Wellness Consultants would be happy to assist you.
