Winter is a magical time, but it often leaves our skin feeling dry and dull. The chilly air and indoor heating can take a toll, robbing our skin of its natural moisture. Winter weather can be harsh on our skin but with a few simple tips and some super powered nutrients, you can have glowing winter skin that will have you embracing the chilly season with radiance while also protecting it from premature aging.
Moisturize Your Skin
Yes, it may seem like a no-brainer, but moisturizing is often underestimated. Opt for rich, natural moisturizers that include ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil. These real food powerhouses penetrate deep, providing lasting hydration. Don’t just slather it on; make it a ritual to nourish your skin. Our lips in particular can get dry, cracked and peeled. For specific tips to have luscious lips check out Winter Lip Therapy.
Quench Your Skin’s Thirst from Within
Hydration isn’t just an external affair. It starts from within. Ensure you’re sipping on water consistently throughout the day. The more hydrated you are, the more supple and radiant your skin becomes. Think of it as a waterfall effect – the more you pour in, the more your skin will thank you. Make sure to drink half your body weight in ounces each day and if you live or travel to a high-elevation destination, you might need to increase your water intake and add some electrolytes.
Bring Back the Moisture with a Humidifier
Indoor heating can be your skin’s nemesis, sapping away precious moisture. But an indoor humidifier just might be the key to help replenish the moisture in your home. Moist air is easier to breathe and less damaging to our skin. A humidifier reintroduces moisture into the air, preventing your skin from turning into the Sahara Desert. It’s a game-changer for maintaining that natural glow.
Avoid Long, Hot Showers
As tempting as it is to bask in a scalding shower during winter, resist the urge. Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and lacking luster. Opt for shorter, warm showers to keep your skin in its happy place. However, whether indulging in a hot or warm shower always moisturize as soon as you get out to lock in moisture.
Choose Foods that Support Glowing Winter Skin
Now, since I’m a nutritionist and a foodie, I can’t miss the opportunity to share with you some of the amazing super foods that are specifically designed to elevate your winter skincare game. It’s no surprise that these foods just happen to be in season from late fall to early spring.
Citrus – The Vitamin C Booster
Citrus and other vitamin C containing foods not only protect us from colds and flu but just happen to protect our skin as well. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits aren’t just juicy delights; they’re skin superheroes. Packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, they repair skin tissues, protect against environmental damage, and leave you with a radiant complexion.
Collagen –The Fountain of Youth in Real Food Form.
Collagen is like the elixir of youth for your skin. Found in bone broth and naturally in some meats, it promotes skin elasticity and hydration, giving you that coveted youthful glow. If getting enough collagen in your diet is challenging, try a collagen supplement like Vital Proteins. Vital proteins collagen comes from grass-fed beef, is flavorless, and can be stirred into hot beverages or blended into a smoothie.
Green Tea – Sip Your Way to Radiance
Swap your coffee for green tea a – hydrating substitute. With inflammation-reducing properties, it keeps your skin calm and collected. Plus, it may boost your metabolism – and added bonus!
Omega 3’s – Fats for a Youthful Glow
Salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds are our omega-3 friends. These healthy fats reduce inflammation, boost moisture retention, and gift your skin with a luminous appearance. For an extra boost, consider supplementing with an EPA/DHA capsule or better yet a tablespoon of my favorite cod liver oil daily.
Sweet Potatoes – The Starchy Skin Saver
Delicious and loaded with vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are a winter staple. They’ve been used in beauty products for reducing acne breakouts and minimizing age spots. Your skin will thank you for incorporating this real food gem into your diet.
Red Grapes – Resveratrol’s Detoxifying Touch
Resveratrol, found in red grapes, is your secret weapon against environmental skin damage. It keeps your skin smooth and radiant. For those of you who enjoy a glass of red wine, yes it also contains resveratrol but moderation is key – wine and other alcohol containing beverage can be inflammatory and dehydrating. Make sure to balance your indulgence with increased water intake.
Winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your radiant skin. With these real food tips and a touch of self-care, you can embrace the season with a natural, healthy glow. So, sip on that green tea, savor those sweet potatoes, and let your skin shine bright in the winter wonderland. Cheers to you my friend and to your radiant skin.