LovelySkin Masterclass Series: Winter skin care myths debunked with SkinCeuticals

Many people feel the need to adjust their skin care routine in the winter, as colder weather can change your skin’s needs. In this video, Licensed Aesthetician and SkinCeuticals Educator Cori discusses some of the most common skin care myths we hear about in the winter and why they may be doing you more harm than good.

Winter skin care myths debunked

There are many myths when it comes to transitioning your routine with the seasons. Here are some of the most common winter skin care myths:

Myth 1: You don't need sun protection in colder months

UV rays can affect the skin year-round, which is why it’s important to wear sunscreen every day. Sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate aging, and while we may not necessarily feel the heat of the sun in the winter, UV rays are still present.

Myth 2: Exfoliation is bad for winter skin

The right exfoliator can keep your skin smooth all winter long. Exfoliating regularly reveals brighter skin and allows other skin care products to penetrate more effectively. There are two types of exfoliators, physical and chemical. While you may use both in your routine, you should be mindful of how many you use together and how frequently you use them.

Myth 3: Retinol is best used during winter only

Retinol can be used all year round. For best results, it should be used as consistently as possible. Winter is a great time to start your retinol journey or experiment with a higher strength than your skin is used to, but you don’t have to stop when winter ends.

To ensure you have the best retinol experience, start with a low strength and gradually introduce it into your routine. If your skin feels tight or flaky, that is a normal symptom. If your skin is burning or stinging upon product application or you’re experiencing excessive redness, it could be a sign that you need to pause or step back on your retinol usage.

Myth 4: You can moisturize your skin by drinking more water

Moisturizers are essential for locking in hydration, preventing trans-epidermal water loss (or TEWL) and supporting the skin barrier. While drinking water can help your body function well, it doesn’t hydrate the skin, and you still need support at the surface. Topical skin care products help prevent moisture loss, hydrate and nourish the skin from the outside in.

An effective moisturizer will include one or more humectant, emollient or occlusive ingredients. Humectants attract moisture to the upper layers of skin and help maintain surface-level hydration. Emollients help fill the spaces between skin cells to support skin barrier function and trap moisture inside. Occlusives create a barrier on the top of the skin to seal in moisture.

You can layer hydrating products and ingredients to get the most out of your routine.

Myth 5: Everyone needs a richer moisturizer in winter

The best moisturizer for winter is dependent on your skin’s type and needs. Oil-free and lightweight moisturizers still effectively hydrate as long as they include the ingredients mentioned above. Consider the climate you’re in. Do you need a thicker moisturizer? If you’re somewhere humid, you may not need it. However, if you live in a harsh winter climate, you may need something thicker.

In the winter, listen to your skin’s needs. You can even experiment with additional layers of moisture to support your skin instead of opting for a thicker moisturizer.

Learn more:

• Winter skin care tips
• How to protect your skin barrier
• Why you need sunscreen in the winter