The effects of cold on our skin and how to combat it

Winter is coming… which means the cold weather is back, and our bodies are feeling it. Besides being cold season, it’s also the season for dry skin, chapped hands, and cracked lips. Why does this happen? How can we protect our skin from the cold?

In summer, blood vessels dilate to promote heat loss through the skin (vasodilation). In winter, the opposite occurs: they constrict (vasoconstriction), preventing sufficient oxygen and nutrients from reaching our skin.

This slows down the cell renewal cycle and… basically, our skin ends up as dry as a prune. To make matters worse, the wind exacerbates skin flaking, and the temperature change caused by heating systems makes the skin lose moisture.

Therefore, we must take steps to protect our skin.

These are our tips:

Protect yourself from the cold. Too obvious, but also essential. Don’t forget to cover your hands with gloves and your face with a warm scarf… and two pairs of socks if necessary. We’re not hiding.

Avoid drastic temperature changes. Whether it’s in the shower with scalding hot or freezing cold water in summer, or before stepping out into the chilly street after snuggling under a blanket, remember to give your body a few minutes to adjust beforehand and move to the rhythm of your favorite song! That way, you’ll be energized and warm as you head out for a walk.

However, when it’s unavoidable, remember that your skin will thank you for adapting your routine. outfit Avoid places with the heating cranked up. We recommend the “onion technique”: dress in layers so you can let go as you feel. This helps prevent dehydration and even irritations (both skin and emotional).

Hydrate your skin. Treat dryness with moisturizing creams. Especially after showers (almost essential), but also repeatedly throughout the day on your hands and every night for intensive foot care.

It’s time to parade around the house with your mask on and remember to exfoliate your skin while you wait for the bath water to cool down.

Below are some products that will help protect your skin from the cold!