Warding off winter's impact on skin

Last updated 11/26/2013 at Noon

Winter skin-care in Sisters Country requires extra protection against harsh weather conditions due to lower moisture levels outside plus the drying effects of indoor heating. Skin-care professionals observe seasonal changes in client's skin such as eczema, dryness, redness and itching. If the skin tends to be chronically dry, it will worsen during the winter. With oily skin you still must utilize moisturizers, but not too oily of a product.

Consult with your esthetician to determine what products and winter-time skin regimen is right for you. Following are 7 tips to maintain healthy, radiant skin all year long.

• Avoid products containing humectants such as mineral oils, which can actually prevent the skin from absorbing essential vitamins and nutrients. If there is no moisture in the air, humectants will rob it from your skin. Switch to a creamy cleanser, avoid harsh soaps.

• Use a humidifier to bring added moisture into home or office. Place one by your bed or have several small ones throughout your house.

• Exfoliate your skin at least once a week to remove dead skin cells in order to allow better absorption of the extra moisturizers you should use during the winter months.

• Try a super-hydrating facial masque, leave on for at least 10 minutes once or twice a week. If possible avoid products listing water as the No. 1 ingredient. This means they are highly diluted, thus not providing the hydration and nutrients that your skin requires.

• Moisturize well with a heavier cream than you would use during the summer. Your heavy eye cream is great for use around the lips as well as the eyes. Pure oils such as jojoba, or even olive oil, are good for dry itchy skin. Just make sure the oil or product is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. You want an oil that is well absorbed into the epidermis. Healing, nourishing calendula oil is a favorite.

• Hydrate from the inside out, especially if you consume caffeine or alcohol during the holiday season. Both are diuretics and very dehydrating to the skin. The rule is that for every cup of coffee or glass of wine consumed, you need at least 2 or 3 cups of water to compensate. The liver and kidneys play a key role in skin health so if any sort of diuretic is used, extra hydration is needed.

• 'Tis the season to be beautiful! Enjoy the winter sports and recreation here in Sisters Country, as you maintain glowing, healthy, beautiful skin.