Daily Vitamina

Wondering how to have great skin as summer shifts to cooler temps?

Skin can look wonderful regardless of the season, but you have to properly care for it. But how?

For this time of year, it’s time to switch things up. Check each of the steps below:

1.  Exfoliate Your Skin

It’s extremely important to exfoliate your skin. Your body sheds skin cells at an amazing rate every day.  If you do not take the time to exfoliate, the dead skin cells are just hanging out on top of your skin making it look ashy, dry and dull.  Even if you keep slathering on your favorite lotion, you’re never going to achieve glowing skin without exfoliating.   Use an exfoliating body scrub 2-3 times a week. Do this year-round.  Rub the body scrub gently in a circular motion on your entire body from your shoulders to your feet.  You will want to use a specific facial exfoliation product for your face and neck that is gentler.

2. Beat Breakouts

Some of the extra moisture on your face is not sweat. Oil glands on your skin’s surface may not be as active as they were in the summer, but factors such as stress and hormones can still affect your glands, meaning more oil, and more potential for breakouts. In one study, 11% percent said their acne worsens in the winter. If acne is an issue for you, talk to a dermatologist about the best products for you to keep your skin healthy. Switch to lighter products that are water-based, look for makeup products that do double duty like ones that contain a moisturizer, foundation and SPF in one, and use an oil-absorbing clay mask once a week. Some of the best products to reduce oil are zinc and titanium-based sunscreens. Look for SPFs that are labeled as “matte finish” and are oil-free.

3. Hydrate your Body

Now that you are exfoliated and beat those breakouts, your skin is glowing and it’s time to hydrate.  As the temperature begins to drop, you will want to pull out those body creams and butters.   Look for something that is fast absorbing and make sure you apply right after you dry off from your shower.  This helps seal in the moisture your body just soaked in.

Soothe flushing by drinking plenty of water, which helps hydrate your whole body as well as your skin. Trust your thirst.

4. Pamper Yourself

Some dermatologists advocate monthly spa facials, especially deep cleansing and microdermabrasion facials, to help achieve great skin. They’re really one of the best ways to get your pores clean in a way you can’t do on your own, since they remove stubborn dead skin cells that clog the pores.

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