Check Your Cleanser
The first thing that you need to do for winter skin prevention is check the cleanser that you are using. You want to make sure that it is not too harsh for your skin. With the dry heat and the cold outdoor air you need to use a cleanser that is very gentle, yet still effective. Liquid, alcohol free cleanser with little to no fragrance are the perfect choice for everyday winter use.
Don't Skip the Moisturizer
Winter weather, wind and drying heat will cause your skin to become dry and chapped. You have to compensate for the weather by thoroughly moisturizing your skin. Sometimes, your everyday moisturizer just wonít cut it in the winter. This is especially true if you already have naturally dry skin. Look for a moisturizing cream or a healing lotion. Both will be thicker than normal moisturizing lotions and will help keep your skin looking its best throughout the cold months.
Treat Damage Correctly
If your skin is severely cracked and chapped, then a moisturizer is not going to work. You will need to use something that moisturizes even more. One of the best things that you can use is petroleum jelly. Of course, you shouldn't be smearing this all over your face, but for severely cracked hands you can slather on petroleum jelly and put on a pair of gloves overnight. It with heal the problem and give you smooth hands. Works great on feet too. If you need a quick spot treatment for your face, especially around the eyes and lips, petroleum jelly will be a great choice.
Don't Forget the Sunscreen
You are most likely thinking sunscreen, in the winter, but the truth is that no matter what time of year it is you can still receive a sunburn. Protect your skin daily by wearing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
Hydrate
Keeping yourself hydrated is important throughout the entire year, but it is very important for winter skin. With the combination of dry heat, wind and cold weather your skin is going to be dry. By keeping yourself hydrated you will be protecting your skin from the inside out and helping prevent over-dryness.
Don't Forget Your Lips
One of the biggest winter problem areas is the lips. Many times, they are completely forgotten except when you put on some lipstick. However, with the winter weather your lips are likely dry, cracked and chapped. The best way to fix this is by applying a moisturizing lip balm several times a day. You can also use coconut oil or vitamin E oil if you prefer to fix the problem the natural way.