There’s a lot to love about winter, from mesmerizing snowy landscapes to hockey on outdoor rinks, but the cold season does bring with it some unique skincare challenges. The crisp and dry air can be rough on the skin, leaving it dry, itchy, and flaky. But don’t worry—with a few simple tips, you can master Canadian winter skincare and keep your complexion radiant.

Stay Hydrated on the Outside

Keeping your skin hydrated is paramount to helping it stay healthy in the winter. The nippy air doesn’t play around, and neither should you! Implement a moisturizer into your daily routine to shield your skin from the biting cold and maintain that summer glow. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides which act as a hydrating trio.

Stay Hydrated on the Inside

Another easy way to keep your skin hydrated is simply to make sure that you are drinking enough water. It may be easier to remember to drink water in the summer heat, but keeping your intake up even when the temperatures plunge is also important. For a cozy twist, indulge in herbal teas that will keep you warm and hydrated at the same time.

Practice Gentle Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and allows moisturizers and serums to work more effectively. But winter calls for a gentle approach. Opt for a mild, hydrating scrub that will exfoliate without stripping the skin’s essential oils. Ingredients to look out for include lactic acid or enzymes from papaya and pineapple, which offer a tender touch while brightening your complexion.

Continue Using Sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just a summer fling, it’s a year-round commitment! In fact, the reflective surface of the snow can intensify the sun’s UV rays and amplify the risk of skin damage. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to keep your skin protected against the persistent rays of the winter sun.

Hydrate and Protect Your Lips

For many people, chapped lips and winter go hand-in-hand. Give your lips a break by using a moisturizing lip balm and applying it as needed for a protective layer against the wind and the cold. It’s also a good idea to pick up a balm with SPF to shield your lips from UV rays as well.

Go Easy on Your Hands

Our hands often bear the brunt of the winter chill, becoming rough and parched. Keep them protected from the elements with a good pair of mittens when outside, and use a rich, moisturizing hand cream to keep them hydrated.

Pro tip: apply hand cream right before putting on your gloves–the enclosed space will help the cream to penetrate more deeply.

Nourish While You Sleep

Nighttime is when our skin goes into repair mode, making it the optimal time to slather on products that will deeply penetrate and nurture it. Investing in a hydrating overnight mask might be just the thing you need to keep your skin happy and healthy. Look for masks with peptides, antioxidants, and vitamin E to wake up feeling rejuvenated.

Navigating through the challenges of winter skincare can be a breeze with these hacks up your sleeve! Just remember that consistency is key, so build a skincare routine and stick to it as the chilly and dry conditions approach. You’ll be all set to enjoy the season without the usual skincare woes.