Winter Skincare, Protect your Skin from the Sun
The appearance of wrinkles, spots, and other signs of aging speeds up by exposing the skin to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, especially during winter. Follow these tips and remember to add them to your winter skincare routine to protect your skin and always look radiant.
During the summer, ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is predominant, and is responsible for sunburn and skin cancer. However, during the winter, UVB radiation decreases, which gives way to ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which causes skin aging.
The United States’ National Cancer Institute states that 90% of skin cancers happen because of overexposure to the sun.
Types of Ultraviolet Rays and their Risks
Ultraviolet rays are classified into three groups:
- UVC: Due to their great amounts of energy, these are the most damaging kinds of rays. However, the ozone layer prevents them from reaching the surface of the Earth.
- UVA: They have the ability to penetrate into the deepest layer of the dermis. They cause cellular alterations and premature aging, in addition to causing cancer.
- UVB: Combined with UVA, these rays are the leading cause of melanoma. They affect the immune system. They penetrate less than UVA rays but filter through more easily.
What Happens to the Skin During the Winter?
The elastic fibers become insoluble and collagen decreases, which produces the appearance of wrinkles, and ultimately, speeds up skin aging. The skin becomes pale, fragile, and chapped.
The cold winter weather causes the blood vessels under the skin to contract, as to maintain their internal heat. The skin’s blood flow is reduced, thus receiving less oxygen and nutrients. The epidermis is virtually defenseless against the cold, wind, dryness, UV rays, and other pollutants to which it is exposed. Therefore, the consequences are serious. A sensation of strain, flakiness, and itching can happen.
What Are the Most Affected Zones?
- Lips: dryness and cracks.
- Hands and nails: lack of moisture and roughness.
- Face: a feeling of drought.
- Legs: itching can happen.
Basic Care
Surely you already have a daily skincare routine. But, are you doing everything your skin needs? It is ideal is that you incorporate habits to take care of your skin during winter:
- Wash the face twice a day with soft and circular movements.
- If you use makeup, it is important to remove it every night before going to sleep.
- Apply a lotion that contains Aloe Vera.
- Afterward, apply astringent lotion.
- Before leaving home, apply sun protection. It is recommended to use protection that is at least 30 SPF.
- Take care of your lips by using lip moisturizers with sunscreen.
- Wear sunglasses. They help prevent cataracts and skin cancer around the eyes.
It is essential to use a moisturizing lotion, drink plenty of water, and maintain a high intake of foods containing vitamins A and E. To avoid dryness, there is nothing better than exfoliation, nutrition, and moisturization.
Go with a specialized professional to get to know your skin type, and thus be able to use the products your skin needs.
