Exfoliation
Exfoliation is key to avoiding flaky, dry skin in the cold winter months. Using a scrub from the drugstore or even a DIY scrub (sugar+ olive oil= come at me winter) will slosh of the dead, top layer of cells and reveal the fresh, radiant skin that lies beneath. Exfoliate your body and your face twice a week for amazing results.
A body brush is a really beneficial tool for exfoliating that should be used daily before you get in the shower. Not only does it brush off dead skin cells, it also increases circulation, reduces cellulite and stimulates the lymphatic system which will help you eliminate toxins properly to prevent getting sick! Plus, Miranda Kerr is a big fan of body brushing so that should be reason enough to try it.
Don’t forget to exfoliate your lips too! You can use the DIY sugar scrub above or just a damp, warm washcloth in a circular motion for about 30 seconds.
Moisturizing
Moisturizing is obviously extremely important when it comes to skincare. You can find great options at the drugstore like the Replenishing Rich Moisturizer by Simple Skin Care, which is free of artificial dyes, perfumes and other harsh irritants to leave your skin feeling nourished while still breathable.
If you want to invest in one skincare product for the wintertime, I would recommend a night cream. Using a really luxurious moisturizer at night allows your skin to really absorb the nutrients over night while it is free from makeup and isn’t being bombarded with all the toxins in the Oakland air. If a night cream seems appealing to you, try Origins High- Potency Night-A-Mins.
If you wanted to try something more affordable, Coconut Oil is a great and inexpensive nighttime moisturizer because it is extremely nourishing and hydrating. I wouldn’t use this in the daytime just because you will look pretty oily. Try following a facial massage on YouTube using coconut before bed and you will feel wake up feeling flawless. It can also be used as leave in conditioner to make sure your hair survives this winter, along with your skin!
For the body, the Organix Argan Oil of Morcco Body Lotion is inexpensive and extremely rejuvenating. It smells sensational and contains Argan Oil, which is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. As for moisturized lips, try Carmex or Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment.
Masks
If you really want to take your skin to the next level, a mask is the way to go. Lush makes a wide variety of Fresh Face Masks that are both life-changing and affordable (there’s a Lush in the Macy’s downtown.) They are made so fresh that they have to be refrigerated and because of that, they recommend only keeping them for 2-3 weeks (I’ve kept them past that and been just fine). My favorite one is the Brazened Honey, but ask an employee to help you pick out one that’s best for your skin type.
You can also find lots of DIY face masks online. A really easy one is just honey! Honey is a humectant so it attracts moisture. Slather on a layer and wash it off after about 10 minutes!
Finally, make sure you are drinking lots and lots of water! Staying super hydrated is essential to having moisturized, glowing skin and staying healthy throughout the cold winter months. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water a day.