6 Ways To Treat Your Skin Right This Winter

Think that just because the sun isn’t as strong in the winter means you’re in the clear as far as sun protection is concerned? Think again. A weaker (or seemingly non-existent) sun still poses a threat to your skin, whether you partake in outdoor activities during the colder months or just sit by a window on occasion. Keep yourself safe by establishing a winter skincare routine that will ensure that you emerge from this year’s freeze looking fresh-faced and ready for the thaw.

Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key if you want to keep your skin looking and feeling great throughout the colder months, especially when you have to worry about forced air or cold winds, both undeniable moisture zappers. Try having a water bottle with you at all times so that you’re more likely to sip from it throughout the day, keeping your body lubricated and your skin glowing. Reach for tea instead of coffee, snack on fruits and vegetables with a high water content (cucumbers, oranges, and green peppers are all great options) and listen to your body’s cues, trying to avoid the early signs of dehydration.

Quench Your Skin’s Thirst
If you want to avoid that dreaded winter itch, you’ll need to step up your moisturizing game big time. Start by applying a heavy duty layer of lotion to your body just after stepping out of the shower when your skin is still damp, locking in the moisture and keeping you blissfully scratch free. When it comes to your face, opt for a cream that will not only keep your skin hydrated but will also protect it from sun damage. Something like Panama Jack’s sunscreen lotion is perfect for the job, offering broad spectrum coverage, CoQ10 antioxidants and Vitamin E that will not only keep your skin protected from the elements but leave it looking amazing too.

Scrub It Off
If you haven’t already incorporated exfoliation into your skincare routine, there’s no time like the present. Regularly sloughing off dead skin keeps you glowing and allows moisturizers to sink in and do an even better job at protecting you from the elements. Try to choose an exfoliant that is gentle on your skin to avoid irritation and be careful not to overdo it—once or twice a week is more than enough.

Throw Some Shade
Even though the sun tends to play a less prominent role during the winter months, anyone who’s ever experienced disorienting snow blindness after coming inside after a day on the slopes can attest that it still packs a powerful punch. Whether you’re a die-hard winter athlete or only step outside when absolutely necessary, it’s important to protect your eyes with good quality sunglasses. Opt for shades that not only keep you protected from the sun’s glare but also look amazing at the same time. Panama Jack’s sunglasses fit the bill quite nicely.

Don’t Forget Your Lips
Despite occupying valuable real estate on your face, lips tend to get left out when it comes to skin care regimes. Typically, they’re the first to show signs of dehydration and winter abuse in the form of cracks, chapping, and painful bleeding. Avoid the discomfort by keeping your mouth in tip top shape by regularly applying a lip balm that offers moisturizing properties as well as SPF. This tropical lip balm not only keeps your pout perfect, it smells amazing and will have you daydreaming of the tropics every time you apply it.

Know When To Call For Backup
When you know you’re going to be facing extreme weather conditions or spending a lot of time outside, you’ll need to up your skin protection level by calling in the heavy hitters. When it comes to offering intense cold-weather protection, petroleum jelly is an effective and affordable way to keep yourself covered. Before heading out, dab some jelly your cheeks, around your nostrils, on your lips, and anywhere else you expect to take a beating. While it may leave you looking a little shiny, the protection that it offers is invaluable and you’ll be happy you took the extra step when you’re the only one in your group who’s managed to avoid windburn.