Winter Skin Care

Winter is approaching and as we break out the new wardrobe we need to make preparations in our skin care regimen as well. Specifically with the kinds of oils and moisturizers we use on our body. This is possibly the most important winter preparation, as dry skin doesn't look good with any outfit! Although we may be more covered up during these months, we still should take care in how we protect our skin.

So here are some tips on moisturizing:

• The best time to moisturize your skin is right out of the shower so that you lock in the moisture. Some moisturizers when used on dry skin, specifically petroleum based products, actually block moisture from entering the skin.

• If you turn moisturizing your skin into �me time� by giving yourself a mini massage you are more likely to remember and actually want to moisturize your skin regularly. This also helps the moisturizer penetrate deeper into the skin. 

• Have you ever put on lotion at night and in the morning your legs are still just as dry? Try paying attention to what you wear to sleep. If you�re one of those �free spirited� people all of the moisture you added is being absorbed into your bed sheets. Going to bed with loose fitting cotton pajama pants (yes I know the restriction! lol) can really help keep the moisture where you want it.

• If you�re like me and hate touching your face after putting on lotion I think I have a solution for you. As a new natural (meaning I no longer chemically relax my hair) I often have a spray bottle on hand with a mixture of water and a few oils such as avocado or grape seed to moisturize my hair. This is perfect for moisturizing your body as well. Simply spray it on after your shower and rub your legs and arms together and you�re done!

Not all moisturizers are created equal

There are some oils and moisturizers that are better when used on specific types of skin and certain times of the year. I personally prefer natural oils and butters to moisturize my skin because the ingredients in generic store brand products can be somewhat questionable.

In the winter months some of the best oils to use are olive oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and grape seed oil. Some of the best body butters to use are shea butter and cocoa butter. These oils and butters help to provide a great amount of moisture while also penetrating the skin. Keep in mind that you are not restricted to just one oil or butter. You can combine them together and create your own special recipe. I will probably make another post with of some of my favorite combinations.

Now you may be thinking, which are better for your skin oils or butters? From my experience, oils are better if you have dry skin and want to improve the overall look and texture of your skin. This is because oils seem to penetrate the skin better than butters. Body butters create a protective layer that seals in moisture and protects the skin from harsh weather. In saying that, it may be best to use an oil at night and a butter in the morning in order to get the benefits of both.

I hope this helps and stay tuned for more recipes and tips! :)