Dr. Lee’s Tips to Beat Jack Frost This Winter

In 2020, it’s been nearly impossible to gauge what day it is, let alone the time of year. So you’re forgiven if you think it’s still spring. But believe it or not, winter’s coming fast. And with it comes cold, dry, dirty air that can take your skin from summer glow to winter glum.

Your environment plays a huge impact on your skin. If you live in an area that experiences both winter air pollution and low, biting temperatures, your skin’s going to need a little extra love.

Lucky for you, we have five tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Lee to keep that dermis dreamy this winter.

UV’e Gotta Wear Your Sunscreen

Although the days are shorter and the weather’s turning gray, it’s still important to protect your skin from the sun, both for skin cancer and anti-aging. Dr. Lee suggests using a morning SPF product like USANA Celavive Protective Day Lotion to help ensure your skin is protected all day, every day.

Anyone who’s spent time in the snow on a sunny day knows the brightness is absolutely brutal. And if you’re into mountain sports like skiing and snowboarding, extra sun protection on the slopes is a must. Choose the richer formula, Celavive Protective Day Cream, or use a broad-spectrum physical SPF blocker (containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide). Plus, it will help fight that dreaded goggle tan.

Pollution Solution

Did you know air quality and pollution are actually worse in the winter? If you live in a valley or are surrounded by mountains, you may have noticed an inversion during the winter months. It’s when cold air at the surface gets trapped under a layer of warmer air and locks in pollution and emissions, instead of allowing them to dissipate into the atmosphere.

Everything from automobile exhaust to manufacturing emissions to aerosols can affect the air quality and wreak havoc on your complexion.

Dr. Lee recommends the Celavive Exfoliating Scrub + Mask to fight pollution on the skin. Its charcoal ingredient helps “detoxify” and deep clean your pores. Leave it on longer for a more powerful effect before rinsing.

Another great way to combat air pollutants is to add vitamin B to your diet. Studies show vitamin B can help reverse the negative effects of environmental stressors—like pollution—on your DNA.

Get Swampy

The cooler months bring dry, irritating skin, thanks to the humidity dropping like a lead balloon. So while you’re cooped up indoors away from the parched weather, consider a humidifier to keep your air, and your skin, perfectly moist.

The winter air quality in your home can also be improved by installing an air purifier and adopting some house plants—they clean the air simply by doing their photosynthesis thing. And your skin will love you for it.

A Gentle Approach

Your skin is also more vulnerable during the winter, so be gentle. If you tend to be extra sensitive, Dr. Lee recommends decreasing the frequency you use the Celavive Exfoliating Scrub + Mask (maybe only 1–2 times per week) or any other exfoliant you may be using. After applying a scrub, pamper your skin with Celavive Vitalizing Serum or Replenishing Night Gel/Cream to lock in moisture.

And while there’s no better feeling than a long, hot shower, did you know hot water is extremely harsh on your skin? The warmer the water, the more oil and moisture it removes. The best way to avoid drying out your skin while bathing is to use gentle, lukewarm water for only five to 10 minutes. Treat yourself to a relaxing face mask with your extra time, it’s so worth it.

Down to the Tea

Nothing hits the spot better during the brisk months of winter than a hot cup of tea. While tea can warm your insides and help soothe a sore throat, some teas can actually be quite beneficial for your skin as well. Dr. Lee’s favorites are spearmint tea to help fight acne breakouts, green tea for antioxidants, and an herbal tea before bedtime to help you get your beauty sleep.

And when it comes to foods, there’s a bounty of gourds and vegetables this time of year. While the sight of these fall faves may make you all comfort food cozy, they’re also chock full of healthy, skin-friendly nutrients. Sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, and potatoes are all high in antioxidants, known to help fight signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.

Winter’s coming—your skin will soon face some serious stress from harsh, dry, grimy air. Try  these tips from Dr. Lee to beat Jack Frost this winter and get ready to make 2021 your year.