It’s that time of year again! Time to break out the heavy duty lotions, lip balms, and face creams. Winter can be harsh on your skin. The cold weather and dry air can leave your skin feeling dry, cracked, and irritated. But don’t despair! There are things you can do to help your skin survive the winter months. Here are 9 tips for winter skin care:

1.Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

This is probably the most important tip on the list. Keeping your skin moisturized is the key to healthy, glowing skin during the cold Winter season.

2. Exfoliate weekly

We tend to pay less attention to certain skin routines due to us being covered up most of the time. Just a friendly reminder that exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, which can help prevent dull-looking skin…. this includes those crusty feet you keep covering up with thick socks and boots all Winter. (Sorry, I had to be straightforward on that one – I’ve seen some things *cringe*)

3. Drink plenty of water

Is it just my Mom that drills this into my head nearly every day of my life (even now)? This one is important all year round, but it’s especially crucial in the winter when the air is extra dry. But you knew that already…so do the right thing and drink up – make your Momma proud.

4. Use a humidifier indoors.

Because dry, desiccated skin is NOT sexy. Running a humidifier in your home or office will help add moisture back into the air, which will in turn help your skin stay hydrated.

5. Apply Sunscreen

Sunscreen goes with coats and boots just as much as swimsuits and flip flops. Yes, it’s cold outside; but that doesn’t mean you don’t need sunscreen! The sun’s rays can still damage your skin, even in the middle of winter .

6. Eat healthy, hydrating foods

Hydration is the name of the game…especially in harsh winter weather. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables is good for your overall health…but did you know it can also help provide your skin with the hydration it needs to maintain it’s glow through the Winter season?

7. Get adequate sleep

Sleep does wonders for our bodies, including our skin. Getting enough rest helps reduce stress levels which can do all sorts of damage to our complexions. Don’t be stingy with your beauty rest. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and you’ve already given your skin a great head start against harsh weather for the next day.

8. Protect your lips.

Your lips are especially vulnerable to the cold weather and dry air. Be sure to take extra care of them during the winter months by using a lip balm or chapstick (preferably with SPF protection built in). Don’t forget to re-apply often!

9. Limit Showers and Baths

Now, wait a minute…before some of you get carried away. I did NOT say that you should stop taking your showers and baths. PLEASE don’t misunderstand me. While a hot shower might feet great on a cold winter day, too much exposure to hot water can actually strip away natural oils from your skin…leaving it feeling dry and irritated. Try limiting yourself to 10 minutes or less, and opt for cool or lukewarm water instead of hot.

Winter can be tough on our skin, but following these simple tips can help ensure that we have healthy and glowing skin all season long! Do you have any favorite tips for keeping your skin looking its best during the colder months? Feel free to share them in the comments below!