Underneath the layers of hats, gloves and scarves keeping you toasty warm this winter lies your best beauty asset: your skin. But maintaining a fresh face in the midst of chilly temps and whipping winds can be a chore without a winter-worthy skin regimen.
Dry skin is one of the biggest challenges this time of year, and transitioning from your cozy heated car, home or office to the cold outdoors everyday only makes matters worse. Not only does your skin dry out, it can easily become irritated and inflamed, wreaking havoc on your complexion.
Although there are many moisturizers to choose from, Southern Surgical Arts' licensed aesthetician Neko Shae says those containing hyaluronic acid are your best bet this season. “Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture like a sponge soaks up water, so any moisturizer that has HA as its primary ingredient is going to be the most effective relief from dryness and irritation.” She says both SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier and Skin Medica’s HA5 top the list of hyaluronic moisturizers she advises to patients.
Other ingredients that work a bit of holiday magic are lipids, peptides and antioxidants. Be sure to file this trio of anti-aging warriors into your long-term beauty lexicon because they pack a punch in the daily fight against aging and Old Man Winter. Products like Skinbetter Science Alto Defense Serum for Face and Alastin Skincare Restorative Skin Complex defend against free radicals, stimulate collagen and help your skin barrier function properly. “Once the skin barrier function is working, balance in the skin is achieved, which is essential,” says Shae. Balanced skin, more collagen production – the proverbial anti-aging ace in the hole – and protection from free radicals make a big difference in achieving a healthy, youthful glow. And while you’ve no doubt heard it before, Shae says the age-old advice to stay hydrated still stands. Drinking plenty of water keeps your overall system hydrated which has a direct, positive impact on your skin.
Need help starting your Smart Winter Skin Care Plan? Have SSA’s expert aestheticians provide you a professional skin analysis to determine the right products for your personal skin care needs. Call SSA today at 423-266-3331 to make an appointment!