Winter can be a tough season on the skin, with drier indoor climates the strip skin of its natural hydration and nutrients. Outdoor weather isn’t helpful either, with cold winds and temperatures to further dry skin and lead to significant irritation. Protect your skin from the elements this winter by changing up your skin care routine to give your complexion the extra TLC it needs during the coldest months of the year.

The Time to Moisturize

During the dry months of winter, there is a right and wrong time to moisturize. The best time to add hydration to your skin is when it is still damp from your bath or shower. Not only do you add moisture from your emollient of choice, you also lock in moisture that is already present on the skin. Your window of opportunity is relatively short to complete this step – usually about three minutes is all the time you have. Apply your moisturizer the minute you step out of the tub or shower for best results.

Exfoliation Essentials

The dull, dry complexion of winter can be easily brightened with gentle exfoliation treatments. Exfoliation is the process of removing outer dead skin cells, revealing softer, smoother skin underneath. Exfoliation can be performed regularly at home, but is even more effective when the occasional clinical treatment is added to the mix. Professional treatments like microdermabrasion or chemical peels are a good way to get deeper exfoliation and a more radiant complexion.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection

The thermometer may say it’s winter, but sun exposure during this season can still wreak havoc on your complexion. In fact, reflections off the snow can actually increase the strength of UV rays. Don’t shirk sun protection during this time of year. If you are going to be outdoors for any period of time, use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 on all exposed areas of your skin. If you are going to remain outside for 30 minutes or more, reapply your sunscreen periodically to maintain your protection.

Don’t Take the Heat

When the temperature drops, it is tempting to soak in a hot tub or shower for a longer period of time. This practice may feel good at the time, but the toll it takes on the skin will not be as pleasant. Exposure to hot water can further strip skin of essential hydration by breaking down lipid barriers in the skin that hold in moisture. Instead, opt for a lukewarm bath enhanced with oatmeal, baking soda or other skin-soothing ingredients.

Consider a Professional Treatment

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in a professional skin treatment since this is the season when your skin suffers most. At Ocean Plastic Surgery, we offer laser peels and IPL facials that provide deep exfoliation and rejuvenation while treating a host of specific skin concerns. Pampering treatments like chemical peels, medical facials and microdermabrasion also go far in refreshing the complexion with deep exfoliation, cleansing and hydration.

At Ocean Plastic Surgery, we know all too well the toll New Jersey winters can take on the skin. We offer the treatments you need to refresh your skin and keep your complexion in top condition throughout this cold weather season. To learn more, contact Ocean Plastic Surgery at (732) 255-7155.