VOLUME 1 / ISSUE 1 WINTER 2024
HEALTH & BEAUTY
BY DUFFY PERKINS MOISTURIZING YOUR SKIN DURING THE COLDER MONTHS
During these colder months, hydrating your skin can become a full-time job. While many approach this as merely a time to find a stronger moisturizer, if you approach your skincare as you’d approach your wardrobe – layering elements to protect and conserve heat – you will see a greater benefit all-around. To get a full picture of what we need to keep our skin healthy and hydrated, we spoke with two skin specialists, dermatologist Molly Walterhoefer of Current Dermatology and
skincare expert Nic Berg, who offers professional makeup services out of FinArt Gallery.
The first element to understand is that there are three main types of hydration products for the skin: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants (such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin) draw moisture from the environment and bind it to the skin. Emollients contain fatty acids and oils, and smooth and soften the skin’s surface while restoring its barrier function. Occlusives, such as petroleum jelly, form a protective barrier on the skin to prevent water loss and seal in moisture. “Start with a humectant to attract moisture,” says Walterhoefer. “Follow this with an emollient to nourish, soften, and repair the skin. Finishing with an occlusive locks in the hydration and prevents evaporation of moisture into the air. This layering technique creates a robust defense against the elements, ensuring your skin stays moisturized throughout the day.” Occlusive moisturizers are great to wear at night , when you can lock in the power of your serums as well. While petroleum jelly is an easy solution, Berg recommends Aquaphor as well. “It creates a barrier on your skin, which is especially helpful while you sleep, when it helps the products you’re using penetrate better. If you’ll be outside in the snow, or if you’re inside a house with the heat on, the occlusive layer will help maintain moisture levels so that your skin doesn’t dry out.” “The most helpful tip for selecting winter moisturizers is to look for products with ingredients such as ceramide, lipids, and fatty acids ,” says Walterhoefer. “These components strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and provide an extra shield against the weather.”
It’s also incredibly important to remember your sunscreen. “Winter sun can surprise people,” says Berg. “Those UV rays are still out, and sometimes with less tree cover, or reflection off the snow, the damage can be significant.”
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