Winter is a magical time of year filled with snowflakes, hot cocoa, and cozy nights by the fire. However, it can also wreak havoc on your skin. The cold, dry air can leave your skin feeling dull, flaky, and irritated.

But fear not, we have you covered with some essential winter skin prep tips to keep your skin glowing and healthy all season long.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water is crucial for maintaining healthy skin throughout the year, but it’s particularly important during the winter months. The dry air can dehydrate your skin, leading to a dull and lackluster complexion.

Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

2. Invest in a Humidifier

Combat the drying effects of indoor heating by using a humidifier in your home. Heating systems can strip moisture from the air, leaving your skin feeling parched.

A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Place one in your bedroom to wake up to supple and healthy skin every morning.

3. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Your regular cleanser may be too harsh for your skin during the winter months. Opt for a gentle cleanser that won’t strip away your skin’s natural oils.

Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to lock in moisture while cleansing.

4. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is key to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin. Choose a mild exfoliator that suits your skin type and use it once or twice a week.

Remember to follow up with a rich moisturizer to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier.

5. Layer on the Moisturizer

The cold weather can zap the moisture from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Combat this by using a thicker, more emollient moisturizer during the winter months.

Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid, which provide intense hydration and help lock in moisture. Don’t forget to moisturize your body as well, paying attention to areas prone to dryness, such as elbows, knees, and heels.

6. Protect Your Skin

Just because it’s not summer doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen. UV rays can still harm your skin, even on cloudy winter days. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading outside.

Look for a moisturizer with built-in sun protection for added convenience.

7. Don’t Forget the Lips and Hands

Your lips and hands are particularly susceptible to dryness and cracking during the winter months. Invest in a good lip balm and hand cream to keep them moisturized and protected.

Look for products with nourishing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or almond oil.

8. Stay Healthy from Within

Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can help nourish your skin from within. Include foods like avocados, nuts, fatty fish, and leafy greens in your meals to promote healthy skin.

Additionally, consider taking supplements like omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin D if your diet is lacking in these nutrients.

9. Avoid Hot Showers

While it may be tempting to take long, hot showers to warm up during winter, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for warm showers instead and limit their duration to prevent further drying of your skin.

After showering, pat your skin dry and apply a moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in the moisture.

10. Protect Your Skin from Harsh Elements

Lastly, don’t forget to shield your skin from harsh winter elements like wind and cold temperatures. Wear a scarf to cover your face, use gloves to protect your hands, and don’t forget to wear a hat to keep your head warm.

These simple steps can go a long way in protecting your skin from damage and maintaining its health during winter.