These New Year’s Eve Skincare Mistakes Could be Clogging Your Pores, Says Dermatologist

As we gear up for New Year’s Eve festivities and travel plans, the cold and dry winter air threatens our skin’s health. However, before you slather on that extra layer of moisturizer, there’s a cautionary note from Dr. Hamdan Abdullah Hamed, a US board-certified dermatologist and Co-founder of Power Your Curls. According to Dr. Hamed, over-hydrating the skin might do more harm than good, causing issues such as clogged pores, acne breakouts, and even ‘lazy’ skin.

Dr. Hamed suggests that while regular moisturizing with a high-quality product is essential, excessive use can lead to undesirable consequences. Signs of over-hydration include clogged pores, excess oil production, and acne breakouts. He advises monitoring the usage and adjusting it if your moisturizer lasts for weeks instead of months.

The Winter SPF Myth Busted: Protect Your Skin Always

One of the biggest myths about winter skincare is skipping the SPF. Dr. Hamed debunks this misconception, emphasizing the importance of using SPF even during the colder months. Despite reduced sun exposure, the thinning ozone layer exposes our skin to harmful rays. Dr. Hamed urges everyone to incorporate SPF creams or sunscreen into their winter routine to shield the skin from potential damage.

Revitalizing Your Skin in Winter: Simple and Cost-effective Tips

Dr. Hamed offers practical advice to counter the winter gloom and revive your skin’s vitality. First and foremost, he recommends getting 20 minutes of direct sunlight each day to boost vitamin D and serotonin levels. Additionally, skin exfoliation before showering and indulging in baths with Epsom salts, sea salt, and baking soda can improve skin detoxification.

Highlighting the importance of eating a balanced diet with lots of plant-based foods, drinking enough water with a splash of lemon, and spending time outdoors becomes an essential strategy for naturally refreshing your skin. Dr. Anju Methil, a dermatologist in Mumbai, points out that if you don’t stay hydrated, especially after drinking, it shows on your skin, making it look dull and dry. In winter, when your skin is already more prone to dryness and flakiness, these factors make it even more lackluster. Dr. Methil adds that drinking can also lead to puffiness in your face and eyes because your body retains water.

When it’s cold outside, our skin can end up looking dull and dry, so it’s crucial to give it proper attention. Dr. Vicky Zhen Ren, a skin doctor and assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, says that the skin gets even drier in less humid weather. That’s why it’s a good idea for people to moisturize their skin at least twice a day, or even more often if possible.

Here are some easy tips to assist you in doing just that.

Dry Skin in Winter

• Opt for lukewarm showers to preserve natural hydration.
• Use a chemical-free, dense moisturizer for softness.
• Avoid exfoliation; focus on regular moisturizing.
• Explore skin serums for tailored solutions.

Oily Skin Winter Tips

• Prioritize cleansing twice daily with a natural cleanser.
• Use toners post-cleansing for pH balance and moisture.
• Ensure continuous moisturizing for oily skin.

Combination Skin Winter Routine

• Apply an overnight facial mask for added hydration.
• Keep lips moisturized with a lip balm.
• Embrace exfoliation for a brighter, cleansed skin.

Winter Skin Woes: Common Issues and Solutions

Dr. Hamed sheds light on typical skin issues people face during the winter months. Dryness reigns supreme, exacerbated for those with pre-existing conditions like Rosacea and Psoriasis. Lips become extra dry, requiring the support of lip balms, moisturizers, and petroleum jelly.

The scalp suffers from dryness and flakiness due to the lack of moisture and dry air, worsened by hot showers. Winter rash, characterized by dry, itchy, red, flaky skin, commonly appears on hands and arms, resulting in cracked skin around the nails and fingertips.

Sunburn and windburn are also culprits during colder months. Dr. Hamed advises proper UV skin protection to avoid sunburn and addresses the redness, soreness, and dry patches caused by windburn.

As we navigate the winter season and prepare for New Year’s Eve festivities, it’s crucial to approach skincare with mindfulness. Dermatologists provide practical tips to combat common winter skin issues, emphasizing the importance of balanced routines and debunking myths. From the risks of over-hydrating to the significance of SPF in colder months, their insights guide us toward healthier choices. Simple practices, such as regular moisturizing, gentle cleansing, and staying hydrated, can make a significant difference. So, as the cold weather persists, remember to prioritize your skin’s well-being by adopting these straightforward yet effective skincare habits.