How to Winterize Your Skin-Care Routine, STAT

Kayla Barr · January 30, 2015 · 3 min read

How to Winterize Your Skin-Care Routine, STAT

Winter is the worst, especially when you're gearing up for the big day. We all love snow, hot chocolate, and any excuse to snuggle up our partner as much as the next person (we ARE humans, after all), but dry, cracked skin is just not fun. So what's a bride-to-be to do? The key to protecting your face (and hands and arms and legs) and keeping that bridal glow alive until the warmer days arrive is being diligent. Here are some super easy ways to stay looking bridal beautiful all winter long. 
1. Make the most of your moisturizer. 

You're going to want to invest in a good moisturizer for your skin; and not just for the winter, but for life. Use a daytime moisturizer in the mornings before you put your makeup on. Make sure it has SPF in it — that not only protects you from the sun's harmful rays but will also help keep the moisture in! In the evenings, after you’ve cleaned your face, put moisturizing night cream on before bed. Nighttime is the best time to work on repairing your skin — it's called beauty rest for a reason! 

2. Lotion up. 

Your face isn't the ONLY thing that could use a littl extra lovin'. Make sure you are massaging lotion into your arms, legs, hands, and neck each day after you shower to keep your skin soft and comfortable. Research has proven that you have about three minutes to get that lotion on before all the moisture you got from the shower will start to leave your skin. Also, keep a small tube of hand lotion in your purse AND on your desk; you should be reapplying frequently throughout the day! 

3. Exfoliate like it's your job. 

Sugar scrubs are an excellent way to remove dry and dead skin from your body GENTLY. Pick one up to naturally exfoliate while in the shower 1 to 2 times a week. No need to rub too hard, just massage it into your skin and rinse it off after a few minutes. This little addition to your skin-care routine will leave you feeling rejuvenated...and your skin will be oh‑so‑soft. 

4. Show your lips some love. 

Any type of lip balm is great, just make sure it comes with SPF. Applying a little balm throughout the day will keep your lips from drying out, getting chapped or cracking (ouch!). Stay smiling and kissable all year round by moisturizing that pucker. And, be wary of your water bottle. It can actually contribute to dryness. When you take a sip, a few droplets usually end up on your lips, and when they evaporate, they take all the moisture from your mouth with them! Investing in a tasty balm AND a few straws should help. 

5. Get your vitamins on.

Fish oil and vitamin D are imperative for your skin’s health. The harsh winter elements aren't the only thing you're battling; but even when you're indoors, the heat from your home furnace can dry out your skin! These vitamins will do wonders for your skin year round. You can also mix a little vitamin E oil into your lotion to help moisturize your skin. Always consult your doctor or a nutritionist before making any change to your health routine, but discuss adding some vitamins and minerals to your diet and daily routine! 

6. Drink up! 

We can't say it enough: the secret to good skin is hydration! So whether your drink of choice is plain ol' water, green juice, coconut water or green tea, drink plenty of fluids throughout the day for beautiful skin. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is not only essential to your general health and well-being, but it also helps your complexion. The antioxidants in green tea will also do wonders for your skin. 

7. Snack Smarter

We know...sometimes nothing but a sweet treat will get you through that afternoon slump. But it's also true that we are what we eat! And to make sure you get that picture-perfect skin, you need to think about what you're putting into your body. Load up on blueberries to minimize oiliness, nosh on walnuts for lovely locks, and reduce redness with kale. Looking good never tasted so good. [[tall_card_image_id: 311185]]