Cold weather, wind, and air conditioning can all wreak havoc on our faces in winter. Here are a couple of problem areas and some handy tips on how to keep them looking and feeling healthy and glowing:
Skin
- Moisturize- if you suffer from dry skin, invest in a heavy-duty facial moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Heat sources remove humidity from the air and can do the same to your skin. Using tissues and blowing your nose can lead to red and damaged skin around the nostrils, which is very uncomfortable. A good moisturizer will help protect and nourish this sensitive area.
- SPF- even if it’s cold outside, UV rays can still reach and damage your skin. The sun can reflect off snow and building surfaces, so using makeup or moisturizers with built-in protection is important all year round. UV rays can cause great damage to your skin, increasing signs of aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer, so protecting against this whenever you can is vital.
Eyes
- Waterproof- cold weather and winds can make your eyes water, so make sure you invest in some waterproof mascara. This is a tiny change, but it can make all the difference if you’re rushing across town for meetings or work. It can even prevent you from touching and wiping your face, transferring bacteria from your hands and causing acne and blemishes.
- Eye drops- if you suffer from allergies, you may benefit from eye drops like Pataday. Not only do these soothe irritation and itchiness, they also help with watering and redness. These are great to have in your bag wherever you go, and some brands can be used by the whole family. If you are wondering, ‘can my child use Pataday?’ the answer is yes, most children above three years of age can use these drops. However, it’s always worth checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Lips and Mouth
- Lip balm- breathing through your mouth, licking your lips, cold weather, and wind can all lead to chapped and dry lips. This can be very uncomfortable, leaving your lips red and raw. Luckily, using a balm on your lips can rehydrate them and act as a barrier to the elements, reducing further irritation. There are plenty of types and flavors to choose from, and lip balm is readily available in the majority of stores. Lip scrubs are also great to remove any dead and dry skin you may have, and you can even make your own at home with honey and sugar!
- Lozenges- coughs, colds, and air conditioning can also make your mouth and throat feel incredibly dry. Have you ever woken up with a dry mouth after sleeping with the heating on? Using lozenges or throat sprays can help rehydrate your throat, helping to protect against soreness and discomfort. You can also use medicated products to support your immune system further. It’s also important to remain hydrated, and drinking plenty of water will make sure your mouth and skin gets all the liquids it needs to keep it healthy.
