10 Great Tips To Keep Your Skin Moisturized in cold destinations

Heading to chilly climes? That’s quite an adventure! But be careful; cold weather can be tough on the skin. Dryness, flakiness, and chapping – these are common issues. Cold air lacks humidity and robs the skin of natural oils. This concern leads to loss of moisture, which in turn, triggers a series of skin problems. Keeping the skin moisturized is crucial when stepping into cold territories. With the right approach, shielding the skin from the cold impacts will result in a soft, healthy, and glowing skin. Furthermore, it will improve your overall well-being and comfort, as well as your travel experience.

With this in mind, here are 10 great tips to keep your skin moisturized:

1. Choose The Right Moisturizer

Selecting the right moisturizer for your skin type is crucial in a cold environment. Usually, thicker creams work better than lotions at trapping moisture in the skin.  

However, it’s essential to strike a balance between the two, as too much moisture could also lead to skin concerns. Some signs of over-moisturizing include increased skin sensitivity, breakouts, and oily skin. What’s the solution, then? It might be wise to choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer. This type of moisturizer doesn’t clog pores. So, it’s a great option to keep your skin healthy while avoiding the pitfalls of over-moisturizing. 

2. Keep Your Skin Clean And Exfoliated

Maintaining exfoliation and cleanliness is a must in a cold environment. Doing so removes dead skin cells, allowing moisturizers to penetrate deeper and work effectively.  

As such, opting for mild, non-drying cleansers could be a good start. They won’t rob your skin of its natural oils. Another smart move is exfoliating once or twice a week. But remember not to overdo it, as this could lead to skin irritation.

3. Hydrate From The Inside Out

It’s tempting to reach for hot coffee or tea to keep warm in cold weather. However, staying well-hydrated is absolutely crucial in cold weather. So, drinking ample water might be a fantastic way to moisturize your skin, not just on the outside but from within.

Think about it. Hydration isn’t solely caused by what is applied to the skin. It’s also about what goes into the body. So, while that steaming cup of coffee or tea might offer temporary warmth, it’s equally important to drink enough water. After all, a well-hydrated body is the first step to healthy, glowing skin.

4. Don’t Skip The Sunscreen

Sunscreen in cold weather? Sounds odd. But here’s the catch. Snow can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. That means an increased risk of sunburn, even when it’s freezing.

Cloudy skies might be deceptive, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen could be your best friend anytime. Applying it with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin areas might offer much-needed protection. So, don’t let the cold fool you. You need protection from the sun, no matter the weather.

Tip: choose a sunscreen that’s reef friendly and easy to bring when traveling.

5. Keep Your Showers Short And Warm

Just wrapped up a gym workout on your chilly vacation? Tempted by a hot shower? Hot water might drain the essential oils out of your skin.

Here’s a better idea: try a quick, lukewarm shower. Afterward, pat your skin dry, don’t rub. Apply a thick moisturizer while the skin’s still damp. This locks in moisture, keeping your skin soft and supple, even post-intense workout in cold weather.

6. Protect Your Skin With Appropriate Clothing

When venturing out in the cold, wearing clothes that protect as much skin as possible is best. Wearing gloves, for example, could prevent your hands from becoming dry and chapped. Likewise, scarves and high-necked tops might protect the delicate skin on your neck.

7. Consider Using A Humidifier

Cold environments come with challenges. Indoor heating systems, while keeping you warm, might dry out the air. This could further dehydrate the skin. So what’s the solution? A humidifier can add moisture to the indoor space, helping to hydrate your skin.  

For instance, if you’re staying in a hotel during your travels, you could request a room with a humidifier. 

8. Avoid Skin Irritants

Chilly weather can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation. So, it might be wise to sidestep potential skin irritants like soaps and alcohol-based cleansers. 

And it’s not just about what you put on your skin. Certain fabrics like wool could cause itchiness too. Hence, choosing mild cleansers and breathable fabrics might be a safer bet. 

9. Don’t Neglect Your Lips And Hands

Don’t forget about your lips and hands, as these parts are prone to dryness in cold weather. A hydrating lip balm and hand cream could be just what you need. Keeping them handy and applying them frequently could prevent dryness, cracking, or chapping. 

10. Include Essential Fatty Acids In Your Diet

Ever thought of food as a skin ally? Foods rich in essential fatty acids, like omega-3s, might help. They could boost your skin’s natural barriers, which retain oil and get rid of free radicals. Think salmon, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts – they are all excellent sources of these fatty acids.

Incorporating these into your diet could help maintain your skin’s hydration levels, even when it’s chilly. So, while preparing your travel menu, these foods could be a wise inclusion.

Final Thoughts 

Jetting off to a frosty destination is exciting! But, amidst the thrill, remember to pay attention to your skin. Following these tips may keep your skin healthy and well-hydrated.

Also, these steps help avoid potential skin issues that might dampen your travel joy. And who knows? These skincare habits might become a regular part of your routine long after the trip ends. After all, nothing beats the joy of exploring new, frosty landscapes with a well-moisturized skin.

If you have any questions about how to keep your skin moisturized, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!

Author: Daphne

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