Wintertime in Colorado comes with many benefits, but these don’t exactly run skin deep. Due to dry weather and harsh winds, the Centennial State can be especially hard on the skin during cold weather months. There are several ways to protect your skin in an area that’s hydration-challenged, however. Consider the following tips:
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen often seems like something only necessary during summer. But, in Colorado, SPF is like flip-flops: appropriate all year long. While UVB rays are not as potent during the cold season, UVA rays can easily penetrate clouds and damage your skin. Therefore, it’s best to adopt a skincare routine that includes sunscreen no matter what the weather is doing.
Stock Up on Lip Balm
Cold, dry, and windy winter months can be especially harsh on your lips. Chapped and irritated lips aren’t inherently dangerous, but they can be painful, especially when severe. They can also make eating spicy foods, like the obligatory Colorado green chili, quite unpleasant.
Use a Humidifier
Colorado is among the driest states in the US, a not-so-fun fact that feels more potent in cold weather. A humidifier can help counter this by restoring the balance of moisture indoors (keeping your skin hydrated in the process). While you can opt for a large unit, a small, portable one for your bedroom might be more financially feasible.
Avoid Long Showers
A nice warm shower or hot bath is particularly enticing on frigid days. These can warm you up, but they’ll dry out your skin too by stripping it of its natural oils. Your best bet is to take quick showers and apply lotion afterward. Using moisturizing soap might further prevent your skin from getting dehydrated.
Cover Your Face
In addition to being one of the driest states, Colorado is among the windiest, as well. While warm-weather winds tend to have a softer touch, freezing winter winds are especially harmful to the skin. Not only can they dry it out, but they can also cause windburn, a condition marked by skin inflammation and an uncomfortable burning sensation (much like a sunburn).
Colorado has a lot going for it, but moisture is not one of its perks. To protect yourself in cooler conditions, follow these tips and keep Mother Nature from getting under your skin this winter.
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