It’s that time of year again. The leaves have started to change, the days are getting shorter, and you’re beginning to look forward to holiday breaks. But as the weather gets colder, many also see a change in the moisture levels of their skin. A sudden drop in temperature and humidity levels takes away our natural oils, leaving us with dry and uncomfortable skin. Here are some ways to speed up your skin’s adjustment to the change in weather and have you looking dewy and glowing by Thanksgiving.
 
Wear sunscreen
You may be stowing away that bikini to embrace the gray winter skies ahead. But you shouldn’t say goodbye to sunscreen just yet. Although the sun is not as strong in winter, our skin is more sensitive and can be damaged by the sun’s rays more easily. If you don’t wish to add sunscreen to your morning routine, try using a moisturizer with an added SPF. Neutrogena Healthy Defense daily moisturizer has an SPF of 30 and is a great way to protect your skin and prevent drying, without disrupting your beauty routine.

Exfoliate
Taking off dead skin will allow your moisturizer to sink in more effectively. St. Ives Apricot Gentle Scrub gently exfoliates to reveal a healthy layer of skin, without harsh damage. It also smells great.

Invest in a humidifier
Adding a humidifier to your dorm room or apartment will add moisture back into the air that heaters take away. Increasing moisture levels will improve skin’s appearance and may provide other health benefits as well.

Skip the long shower
A long, hot shower can actually further dry out your skin. Excessive steam takes away oils in the skin, disrupting its ph balance. Try to turn the temperature down a little. Luke warm water will give you just enough heat to be comfortable, without damage. If you’re still craving heat, try cutting down your shower time.

Change your beauty routine
Now that you’ve traded your sunglasses and flip-flops for boots and sweaters, it’s time to switch up your beauty routine as well. With the summer sun gone for the next few months, shiny t-zones and sweat are things of the past. It’s now time to pack oils into your skin. Stay away from any cleanser marked promoting “oil control.” A cream based cleanser will provide extra moisture and oil to help skin make up for what it loses during the day. And do not forget to moisturize frequently! Using lotion as soon as you get out of the shower or after washing your hands will lock moisture into the skin, staving off flakes and keeping skin comfortable.

 Nicole Christine Battafarano | weheartit.com