As you read this, winter’s cold, dry air might already be taking a toll on your skin. But don’t settle for simply lathering up on lotion and hoping for the best—there’s a specific science to moisturizing that can help you get the most out of this self-care practice.
Here’s what you should know about the science of moisturizing:
- Yes, winter air can be drying—but so can a hot shower. If it’s your preferred way to warm up on a cold day, try to keep it short and not too warm. Hot water strips natural oils out of your skin. Use mild soaps, avoiding any cleansers that contain alcohol, which can remove even more oil from your skin.
- After a shower, always pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it. Rubbing will strip more oil and moisture from your skin.
- This isn’t to say that cleansing isn’t important. It is! Cleansing, such as during a shower, is an important first step that removes dirt and dead skin cells, so your moisturizers can penetrate the top layer of skin. You just want to make sure you replenish and lock in moisture immediately after cleansing.
- As soon as possible after cleansing (within three minutes), apply a serum for antioxidants your skin needs to be healthy, followed by a humectant substance, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or lecithin, which will attract moisture and replenish the skin. Look for a moisturizer that contains these ingredients (Cetaphil, Pond’s, and CeraVe are popular options). Finish up with an occlusive ingredient, such as petroleum jelly or lanolin, for serious locking in of moisture.
- On that note, remember the occlusive ingredient might protect your skin from drying out further, but it won’t replenish your skin’s moisture the way the humectant will. Hence, the order of application is important.
- It’s not just about what you apply to your skin. Using a humidifier to moisten the air and drinking plenty of water will go a long way toward protecting you from drying out, no matter how cold and harsh the winter gets.
