9 Ways to Have Your Best Skin This Winter

When the snow starts falling, it normally signals the time to say goodbye to your smooth summer skin. With dry air, layers of clothing, and drastic temperature change usually comes the dreaded “winter skin.”

What if this winter could be different, though? What if your skin could be just as smooth under your sweaters as it was in your swimsuits?

Here are a few ways to keep your skin supple and glowing, even when the weather is going against you.

1. Drink Water
Down a nice tall glass of water before you hit the coffee in the morning, and keep it flowing all day long. The easiest way to make sure your skin is hydrated is to take your weight, and divide it by two. That number in ounces is how much water you should drink at a minimum each day. Like meal planning, getting enough water is a matter of preparation. Buy a reusable water bottle and keep it near you all day long.

 
2. Moisturize, All Day Long
Your face is not the only spot that needs moisture. Your entire body needs the extra boost of hydration to combat the dry air and temperature change from inside to outside. Keep a bottle of your favorite moisturizer at your desk and in your purse/bag and reapply throughout the day.

3. Wash Your Hands
You touch thousands of items in a day and your hands carry germs, bacteria and dirt. Those irritants can wreak havoc on your skin so make sure you are washing your hands several times throughout the day.

4. Stop Touching Your Face
As mentioned in the previous point, your hands are dirt and germ havens. If you want to avoid winter breakouts, make a conscious effort to stop touching your face. The less irritants you introduce to the skin on your face, the clearer and smoother your winter skin will look.

5. Use Cold Water
Hot water is your skin’s mortal enemy in the winter months. The combination of warmth and dry air is a recipe for itchy, scaly skin. Use cool water when washing your hands and opt for a lukewarm shower instead of one that is super-hot. This not only saves your skin from dryness but keeps your energy costs lower, too.

6. Skip the Alcohol
When the weather goes downhill, all you may want to do is sit inside and drink a glass of beer or wine. Everything in moderation, of course, but keep in mind that alcohol will dehydrate your skin and make it look dry and tired. If you must have that evening glass of wine or beer after work, combat it with a glass of water. The same is true for caffeine – offset each cup of coffee or tea with an equal amount of water.

7. Eat Salads
Great skin is not just about topical treatments and environment. The fuel you put inside your body matters too. Fresh foods are known health-boosters, and they boost your skin’s natural glow. The antioxidant carotenoid is found in colorful vegetables and it contributes to healthy, vibrant skin that starts on the inside. These vegetables, like carrots and tomatoes, can also prevent wrinkles and other aging elements that impact skin.

The flip side is this: processed foods have been scientifically linked to acne and fine lines on your face. Your summer garden may be long gone, but seek out fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your skin looking its best.

8. Exfoliate
Get rid of the dead skin that will make your skin look dull and dry with a winter restorative facial treatment. Pick an exfoliant that works best for your face and then use a loofa or exfoliation tool on the rest of your body. You’ll want to exfoliate your face just one to three times per week to avoid actually damaging your skin. You don’t need to scrub your skin off, either. Allow the exfoliating properties of the products you use to do their jobs.

9. Powder Yourself
Skin tends to get irritated and crack in areas where sweat collects, like between the thighs or behind the knees. Keep some unscented baby powder with you to dab these areas throughout the day.

How do you keep your skin looking fresh and bright during the dreary months?

source - http://www.lifehack.org/