The best winter skincare routines and expert tips
With the arrival of winter and the drop in temperatures, the body and skin undergo radical changes, necessitating a new approach to care for health and beauty. Historically, winter was known as the "season of repair" for the skin, with ancient civilizations using thick oils to protect it from the harsh cold. In modern times, cosmetic medicine confirms this theory, considering winter the ideal time for advanced dermatological treatments.
Winter is the ideal season for cosmetic procedures
Experts confirmed to Al-Youm that winter presents a golden opportunity for performing non-surgical cosmetic procedures with high safety standards. In this context, Dr. Heba Yousef Al-Ajeel, Assistant Professor at the College of Medicine at King Faisal University and Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Surgeon, and Laser Specialist, explained that the reduced intensity of sunlight and shorter daylight hours provide ideal conditions for recovery.
Dr. Al-Ajil pointed out that procedures such as skin peels and laser sessions require avoiding direct sun exposure and excessive sweating, conditions naturally present in winter, thus reducing the risk of pigmentation or inflammation that can occur in summer. This is also an ideal time for filler and Botox injections, as the cooler weather helps minimize swelling and redness associated with these procedures.
Skin challenges in cold weather
On the other hand, winter poses health challenges for the skin. Dr. Nada Al-Ghamdi, a consultant dermatologist and assistant professor at the College of Medicine at Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, indicated that dermatology clinics witness a significant increase in cases of xerosis (dry skin disease) and exacerbation of eczema and psoriasis during this season.
The main cause of these problems is low humidity and the use of heating methods that dry out the air inside homes, leading to a weakened skin barrier and loss of internal moisture. To avoid this, Dr. Al-Ghamdi emphasized the need to:
- Use moisturizers rich in ceramides or petroleum jelly twice a day, especially immediately after showering.
- Avoid showering with very hot water, which strips the skin of its natural oils.
- Wear cotton clothing that is in direct contact with the skin to avoid wool irritation.
Childcare and elderly care
Moisturizing the skin is especially important for sensitive groups such as children and the elderly. Experts explained that winter is a major trigger for eczema in children, making it essential to use fragrance-free moisturizers and apply them to damp skin to ensure maximum absorption.
Hair is also affected
Winter's effects aren't limited to the skin; they extend to the hair, which can become dry and brittle. Dr. Al-Ajil advised using nourishing hair masks and natural oils like argan and coconut oil before showering to replenish lost moisture and restore hair's vitality.
Psychological and social impact
From a broader perspective, paying attention to skin health and undergoing cosmetic enhancements contributes to boosting self-confidence and mental well-being. The beauty sector in the Kingdom and the region is experiencing increasing growth, with awareness of preventative and therapeutic skincare becoming part of a healthy lifestyle, reflecting a growing health culture within the community.
In conclusion, balance remains the key; while winter provides an ideal environment for cosmetic procedures, it requires strict adherence to a daily skincare routine, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and using sunscreen regularly even on cloudy days, to ensure fresh and healthy skin all year round.
